Arne Slot shares what pundits aren't saying about Hugo Ekitike after Liverpool heroics

Hugo Ekitike scored twice as Liverpool came from behind to beat Newcastle United 4-1 at Anfield, with Arne Slot explaining the hidden improvements that make the Frenchman special

Liverpool's Hugo Ekitike celebrates(Image: AP)

Arne Slot said he is equally impressed with Hugo Ekitike's endeavour without possession as he is with his match-winning Liverpool displays with it.

Ekitike's rapid-fire double shortly before the interval saw Liverpool overturn a one-goal deficit to lead Newcastle United at the break at Anfield, before second half strikes from Florian Wirtz and Ibrahima Konate secured a 4-1 victory.

Ekitike took his tally to 15 goals for the campaign, and 10 in the Premier League, with his brace, but Slot says it isn't solely his goals that please him. The Frenchman has stood up to the plate in the absence of Alexander Isak, having arguably outshone the former Newcastle striker when both options were fit.

"Everyone should talk about his goals and his actions and how nice this is, because this is what pundits and fans like to talk about. This is much more important that work rate off the ball for them," said the Reds boss.

"But for me as a manager I see over the last six or seven months (much) improvement, but lately a lot of improvement in terms of work rate off the ball. The ability to keep on going off the ball, especially with Hugo and Florian.

"Now I think everyone can see that improvement, and the better we are off the ball the more they can show how special they are, as well as all the ones that won the league here."

Slot also expanded on how Ekitike has integrated into the club away from the pitch, providing a glimpse into what he is like beyond the spotlight.

Reds boss Arne Slot(Image: Getty Images)

"Funny, happy, always brings a nice energy to the training ground, but also to the stadium because the fans love him as well," he said.

"From his arrival, I believe everyone can observe how exceptional he is, how rapid he is, which was likely evident in the second goal he netted.

"He took a one v one and went on the outside, which is very difficult in modern football, because usually players go to the inside and have a shot with the right. So you can see his pace.

"But again I would love to mention the fact that his biggest improvement is his work rate off the ball."