Slot hoping for Hugo to be fit for Gunners clash

REDS BOSS'S CAUTION OVER HAMSTRING WORRY

- By PAUL GORST

ARNE Slot is hopeful Hugo Ekitike hasn't suffered a hamstring issue and can be fit for Liverpool's trip to Arsenal on Thursday after the striker missed yesterday's 2-2 draw with Fulham.

The Reds were held at Craven Cottage by Harrison Reed's stunning stoppage-time strike after goals from Florian Wirtz and Cody Gakpo had cancelled out Harry Wilson's opener.

Ekitike played no part in the game after a hamstring scare following the goalless draw with Leeds United on New Year's Day, but with a visit to league leaders Arsenal this week, Slot provided an update on the France international’s hopes of being declared fit.

“Yes, he travelled because he felt something during the training session,” Slot said.

“He felt something during the MRI scan and we got the results when we were flying.

“We were hoping it was a bit of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), which he also had.

“Why? Because Alex Isak has been out and since Alex has been out, he doesn't play 60 or 70 minutes and sometimes gets a bit of rest.

“He has to play 80 or 90 minutes every single game for the first time in his life without a winter break and for the first time, at Champions League level.