Liverpool explains why Hugo Ekitike is missing from squad for Fulham game

The striker was not involved in the Reds squad that traveled to Craven Cottage on Sunday, with Cody Gakpo coming in to replace him the attacking areas

Hugo Ekitike missed Liverpool's game against Fulham with "a minor fitness issue"(Image: Getty Images)

Hugo Ekitike missed Liverpool's Premier League trip to Fulham due to "a minor fitness issue", the club has confirmed.

The French striker has netted five in his last five matches and his presence will be missed at Craven Cottage, especially with Alexander Isak also injured and rookie forward Jayden Danns still unavailable.

Cody Gakpo came in to replace Ekitike in the line-up and could be set to play as a central striker against Fulham.

Ekitike's absence has come as a surprise. There was no indication he was a doubt for the game and the former Eintracht Frankfurt man played the full 90 minutes in the midweek draw against Leeds United.

There was better news elsewhere in the team, with Joe Gomez returning after missing the last three games through injury.

There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and Liverpool.com will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible.

Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story as they happen.

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