Hugo Ekitike adds to Liverpool woes with second injury worry ahead of Chelsea clash

Hugo Ekitike became Liverpool's second injury concern in a matter of minutes during their Champions League clash with Galatasaray. Alisson had already limped off during the second half in Istanbul, with Arne Slot's side already trailing 1-0.

And 10 minutes later, Ekitike was off after receiving treatment after appearing to twinge his groin. The French striker was trying to stretch to control a wayward pass as the Reds desperately searched for a late equaliser.

But after the play came to a pause, Ekitike went down and after spending a couple of minutes with physios, was replaced by Alexis Mac Allister.

It was another worrying development on a night of plenty for the Premier League champions. After their unbeaten start to the new season was ended by Crystal Palace at the weekend, they were hoping for a big response in a hostile environment.

But perhaps the tone was set when Liverpool's players were given a rude awakening in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Hundreds of fireworks were let off outside the visitors' hotel in a desperate attempt to break up their preparation.

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Whether that had any impact is unknown, but the Reds were sloppy from the off, with Slot opting to keep forwards Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak on the bench.

Jeremie Frimpong was Salah's replacement, with midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai reprising his role at right back. However, the Hungarian was beaten for pace in the first half and was at fault for conceding a penalty which Victor Osimhen converted.

The Reds then continued to give away opportunities at will - many through their own errors. After one from Ibrahima Konate, Alisson was forced into a smart stop from Osimhen, but the save came at a price.

The Brazilian immediately called for treatment and was quickly replaced by new deputy Giorgi Mamardashvili. Then there was the issue with Ekitike, which is less than ideal with a Premier League clash with Chelsea just days away.

Liverpool head to Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening, knowing by that point, they could have been leapfrogged by Arsenal at the top of the table.

A lingering issue for Ekitike could be particularly concerning, with Isak still trying to reach full fitness after a summer spent waiting for his move to Anfield. Federico Chiesa would be another option at the top end of the pitch, but picked up an issue before the trip to Turkey.

And there are concerns at the other end of the pitch as well. The goal from Osimhen is the 11th they have conceded in eight matches in all competitions. At the same point last season, Liverpool had conceded just four.

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