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Oliver Giroud believes Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitke has a great chance of making the France national squad for this summer’s World Cup, despite the plethora of talent at the disposal of head coach Didier Deschamps.
In addition to Ekitike, Les Bleus possess elite center forwards such as Kylian Mbappe, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Randal Kolo Muani, and Marcus Thuram, but Ekitike has quickly established himself as an important member of the squad.
The Reds star, who has netted four in his last two Premier League appearances, only earned his first senior call-up in September, but has now played in the last six international matches. He also scored his first goal for the team in last month’s 4-0 win over Ukraine, after coming off the bench in the latter stages.
The French media hailed Ekitike as the “new darling” of the national team after that outstanding 23-minute cameo in Paris, while Deschamps said the Liverpool forward is having a growing influence.
“Ekitike is gaining confidence,” the World Cup-winning coach said in November.
“He's a young player with lots of dynamism and he was able to express himself with his stamina to get around the pitch as well as his ability to penetrate with his speed.”
Giroud, France’s all-time top scorer, knows a thing or two about leading the line for Les Bleus, and said he can see Ekitike having a big role at the World Cup, despite the competition for places.
“Yes for sure [people in France are starting to take notice of Ekitike],” the ex-Arsenal and Chelsea man said on Sky Sports.
“He is now part of the French squad, even though there are so many talented strikers in that team. He has a good chance of being called up for the World Cup.
“It was not easy for him when they [Liverpool] signed [Alexander] Isak for so much money but, he plays a lot of games, is quite efficient and finishes well with his composure in the box.
“He’s got that ability to finish well the work of the team. He can play on the side so [is] versatile.”
Asked whether Ekitike can play in the wide areas, a claim often made by Arne Slot, Giroud responded: “Why not, why not? He can play on the wing and Isak as a No. 9. It depends on the team you face.
“If you know you’re going to have the ball all game, it’s another string to your bow.”
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