Hugo Ekitike could be set for return as Arne Slot plans s...

What’s Happening

Alright so The talented striker could feature Monday, according to the Liverpool boss Hugo Ekitike could be set for return as Arne Slot plans strong Liverpool side to avoid FA Cup shock The talented striker could feature Monday, according to the Liverpool boss By James Benge Jan 11, 2026 at 7:00 am ET • 3 min read Join the Conversation comments Hugo Ekitike is in contention to return to what Arne Slot suggested would be a strong Liverpool squad that take on Barnsley in the FA Cup third round on Monday night.

Ekitike missed draws against Fulham and Arsenal with what his manager termed a minor hamstring issue, forcing the Reds to field what looked like dramatically weakened attacks given the absences of Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak. Ekitike has been one of the best performers in a not it season for Liverpool so far and his return will be a welcome one. (shocking, we know)

Asked if anyone would be available for the visit of League One opposition to Anfield, Slot ASAP namechecked Ekitike, though he added, “That’s not 100% sure, but we will do everything to have him available on Monday.

The Details

” Wataru Endo is also because of return to training, strengthening Liverpool’s defensive options at a time when they are fearing the worst over what looked to be a serious knee injury for Conor Bradley at Arsenal on Thursday night. Of Japan international Endo, Slot dropped, “If I’m correct, he might start to train one of these days, but he’s been out for two months now.

That’s, of course different than being out for one week [like Ekitike has been]. ” Federico Chiesa is another one whose role will be under consideration, particularly with Salah still at the Africa Cup of Nations as Egypt advanced to the semifinals on Saturday.

Why This Matters

Despite the absence of Salah and Isak, Chiesa has not seen his game time dramatically expanded in recent weeks, a rare start against Wolves on December 27 the first time he has played over an hour for Liverpool this season. Slot, but, gave an indication that the Italy international was happy with his game time.

Players and coaches will be watching how this unfolds closely.