Ekitike's Brilliance Casts Shadow Over Isak's Liverpool Future
As Liverpool's substitutes rose to celebrate Hugo Ekitike's match-winning performance against Newcastle United, one figure remained seated while offering polite applause. Alexander Isak's smile from the row behind the bench concealed what must have been swirling doubts about his own position at Anfield, following the French striker's devastating display.
Clinical Double Raises Selection Headache
The £125 million Swedish international, currently sidelined with injury, watched as his 23-year-old teammate delivered a masterclass in centre-forward play. Ekitike's ninth and tenth Premier League goals of the campaign weren't just statistics - they were clinical statements of intent that have created a genuine selection dilemma for manager Arne Slot.
If Liverpool's long-term tactical approach involves deploying a single central striker, Ekitike is building an increasingly compelling case to be that man. His performance against Newcastle, who had previously shown strong interest in signing him, demonstrated precisely why he's become such a coveted talent in English football.
Newcastle's Bold Gamble Backfires Spectacularly
The visitors arrived at Anfield with an adventurous selection strategy that ultimately proved their undoing. Eddie Howe's decision to deploy Anthony Gordon as a central striker represented a significant gamble, particularly given the former Everton player's history of disciplinary issues against Liverpool.
Gordon's early yellow card for a late challenge on Alisson Becker disrupted Newcastle's promising start, during which they had exposed Liverpool's makeshift right-flank defence. Harvey Barnes came close to opening the scoring when his curling set-piece effort struck the inside of Alisson's left-hand post, while Virgil van Dijk needed to make a crucial intervention to prevent Barnes converting Gordon's dangerous cross.
Liverpool's Resilience and Response
Despite Newcastle carrying the greater threat for much of the first half, Liverpool's response to going behind was immediate and emphatic. When Gordon's low shot squirmed through Milos Kerkez's legs to give the visitors a deserved lead, it appeared Liverpool's five-game winless Premier League run might continue.
Instead, the concession sparked Liverpool into life, with Ekitike emerging as the attacking leader they desperately needed. His first goal resulted from wonderfully intricate build-up play involving Florian Wirtz, while his second - following a simple long pass from Kerkez - showcased his acceleration and composed finishing as he flicked the ball beyond Nick Pope.
Wirtz Continues Improvement as Liverpool Find Comfort
Florian Wirtz's growing influence at Anfield was further evidenced by another improved performance and a well-taken goal that effectively sealed the victory. The German international's side-footed finish from Mohamed Salah's assist made the scoreline comfortable for Liverpool after Ekitike had already missed a good opportunity to complete his hat-trick.
The most emotionally resonant moment arrived late in the game when Ibrahima Konaté, returning to the side for the first time since his father's passing, scored Liverpool's fourth goal. His tearful celebration provided a poignant conclusion to what became a thoroughly satisfying evening for the home supporters.
The Lingering Question for Slot
As Liverpool's executives reflect on their summer investment paying immediate dividends, the fundamental question remains: how will Slot accommodate both Ekitike and Isak when the latter returns from injury in February?
While Isak represents a significant long-term acquisition who should prove his worth over time, Ekitike's current form presents the Dutch manager with a pleasant but complex problem. The young Frenchman isn't merely competing for a starting position - he's actively redefining what Liverpool supporters can expect from their leading striker.
This convincing 4-1 victory not only boosted Liverpool's Champions League aspirations but also highlighted the depth of attacking talent at Slot's disposal. The challenge now becomes managing expectations and egos as Liverpool navigate the remainder of a demanding season with two elite strikers vying for what may ultimately be a single starting position.
