Hugo Ekitike Delivers Message to Newcastle Supporters with Anfield Brace
French striker Hugo Ekitike made a pointed statement to Newcastle United fans during Liverpool's emphatic 4-1 Premier League victory at Anfield on Saturday evening. The 23-year-old forward, who joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer in a deal potentially worth £79 million, netted a quickfire first-half brace to take his seasonal tally to 15 goals.
Transfer History Adds Spice to Encounter
The match carried extra significance for Ekitike, who was heavily linked with a move to St James' Park before ultimately choosing Merseyside. His performance proved particularly telling as he opened the scoring and added a second shortly after, with Florian Wirtz and Ibrahima Konaté completing Liverpool's scoring. The victory propelled Jürgen Klopp's side to fifth position in the Premier League table.
Ekitike's contribution didn't end with his goals. When substituted in the 84th minute, the forward could be seen making a '3-1' hand gesture toward the travelling Newcastle supporters, referencing the scoreline at that moment. He then celebrated enthusiastically with the home fans before taking his place on the bench.
Post-Match Comments and High Praise
Speaking after Liverpool's Champions League victory over Qarabag earlier in the week, Ekitike addressed the persistent questions about his near-move to Newcastle. "Yeah, obviously, we were close [to joining Newcastle]," he acknowledged. "I don't care. I play for Liverpool, I don't care about this, I just want to play and help the team. It is simple. Obviously, we were close [to signing for Newcastle], but I made my choice. I knew where I wanted to come, so that's all I can give to you."
The striker emphasized his connection with Liverpool supporters, adding: "Liverpool fans' support means a lot. I play for the fans; they give me so much energy."
Gerrard Draws Torres Comparison
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, providing analysis for TNT Sports, offered high praise for Ekitike's performance, particularly his second goal. "This is all about Ekitike. It's Torres-like, he just gets it out of his feet," Gerrard observed. "He reminds me of Torres this player, every time I watch him. He's scoring similar types of goals where if you give him space in the channel, he'll run it. He's too quick, you can't catch him and he is deadly."
The comparison to Fernando Torres, the former Liverpool striker renowned for his pace and finishing, underscores the growing impact Ekitike is making at Anfield following his substantial summer transfer.
