Hugo Ekitikey assisted Mohamed Salah to open the scoring in the win over Athletic Club, with Darwin Nunez, Rio Ngoumohra and Harvey Elliott also involved in the kick-off.
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Highlights from Liverpool's second pre-season game against Athletic. Photos courtesy of Liverpool FC.
Liverpool made it back-to-back wins in a friendly against Athletic at Anfield on Monday. Let's take a look at some of the key moments from their performance…
Ekitiike shares his views on his role at Liverpool
Both before and after Hugo Ekitikey's arrival at Anfield, the transfer raised questions about how well the French striker fits into Arne Sloth's strategy, but as he noted in an interview with LFCTV after the match, he is “here to win”, regardless of his position on the pitch.
A fee that could rise to £78m removes any doubt the 23-year-old will remain in the reserves and suggests his role will increase.
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Interest in Alexander Isak has sparked renewed speculation, but by assisting Salah, Ekitikey showed he can do more than just be a standard striker.
In photo: Mohamed Salah's first goal was scored by Ekitika
On the left flank, after linking up with Cody Gakpo, his skill and pass to Salah showed he is more than capable of fitting into the Slots' dynamic attacking line.
“I’m still trying to connect with the others,” Ekitiku told LFCTV.
“But I enjoy playing with them. It's fun playing with them. We have little things we need to improve, but I really enjoy working with them.”
Early indications are that the Premier League should be wary of him finally linking up with his new team-mates, as he appears to have already settled in at Anfield.
William Bitibiri
Rio Ngoumoha is a real find. Will he replace Luis Diaz?
Pictured: Rio Ngoumohra scored and provided an assist as Liverpool beat Athletic Bilbao.
“Rio [Ngoumoha] has been doing great in every game of pre-season,” Arne Sloot told LFCTV after the match.
That's a rather reserved assessment from the Liverpool manager of the 16-year-old, who not only shows confidence, skill and persistence on the ball, but also causes a storm of delight among the spectators.
A rare talent in football, which is even more unusual for players in the early stages of their careers.
Without trying to put undue pressure on a man who hasn't even learned to drive, he comes across as a true professional.
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Sourse: skysports.com
