ARNE IS THE TERMINATOR

Ekitike says boss takes a hard line with him... but it's helping striker to reach top at the Kop

- BY IAN DOYLE

HUGO EKITIKE admits Liverpool boss Arne Slot is constantly on his back in training - but the striker knows it will help him succeed at Anfield.

The France international has proven himself a quick learner in English football since his £79million arrival from Eintracht Frankfurt in July, with six goals in 15 appearances for the Premier League champions.

But the Slot machine has stalled this season - with the Reds enduring a torrid run of six defeats in seven - before victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid raised spirits ahead of today's trip to Manchester City.

However, Ekitike insists the standards have not slipped at Liverpool's Kirkby base with Slot keeping a particularly close eye on his new marksman.

When asked whether the Dutchman pushes him a lot in training, Ekitike laughed: "Yes! As a player, sometimes you're p***ed, it's annoying.