5 hours ago
30
Alexander Isak might find himself relegated to the Liverpool substitutes' bench should Hugo Ekitike maintain his exceptional form. That's according to former Manchester United forward Teddy Sheringham.
Ekitike has enjoyed a sensational beginning to his Liverpool career, with his decisive strike in Tuesday's 2-1 Carabao Cup triumph at home to Southampton marking his fifth goal in eight outings since his summer move from Eintracht Frankfurt.
The Frenchman entered the fray at the interval after taking the place of British transfer record acquisition Isak, who had opened the scoring with his maiden goal for the Reds following his deadline day switch from Newcastle United.
Ekitike was set to spearhead Saturday's Premier League encounter at Crystal Palace but he is now ruled out after receiving a second yellow card for taking off his shirt immediately after restoring Arne Slot's side's advantage against Southampton.
This could result in Isak spearheading the Reds' attack at Selhurst Park, though Sheringham reckons the Swede is presently second choice in the striker hierarchy at Anfield.
The former England international said: "Hugo Ekitike should be picked to lead Liverpool's front line ahead of Alexander Isak.
"Ekitike has settled in really well to the team and has been brilliant in the opening fixtures of the season. As good as Isak is, I don't think it's fair to Ekitike to have a new signing slot straight in to the starting line-up ahead of him.
"I think Arne Slot will gradually introduce Isak into the team, rather than throwing him in at the deep end. He needs some time to regain his fitness and adapt to Liverpool's style of play.
"Taking this approach also keeps Isak motivated to prove his worth in training and earn his place in the line-up based on merit rather than reputation.
"Ekitike has had more time to integrate into the team and has demonstrated his quality on the pitch. If I were in his shoes, and a new signing immediately took my spot, I wouldn't be pleased!".
Ekitike's position will be decided this weekend as Liverpool face a Palace side who are the only other team in the Premier League still unbeaten after five matches.
The victory over Southampton ensured that the Reds have won all seven games they've played in all competitions so far this season, following their Community Shield loss to the Eagles on penalties.
A key factor in their strong start has been midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who will return to Slot's starting line-up on Saturday after being rested midweek.
Sheringham, speaking to Coin Poker, said of the Dutchman: "Ryan Gravenberch has been really impressive for Liverpool so far - he's improved since he signed for the club.
"He seemed a bit out of his depth when he first joined but has since significantly improved and looks like a top player. I'd rank him among the best midfielders in the Premier League.
"I really like the way he goes about his business on the pitch and has been a key player in making this Liverpool team into what it is - one of Europe's most dominant teams.
"He probably doesn't get the credit he deserves because you've got several star players in that squad, such as Mohamed Salah, Hugo Ekitike, Dominik Szoboszlai and now Alexander Isak! I've got a feeling he'll be crucial to Liverpool's title challenge this season."
English (US) ·