Liverpool are entering a crucial phase of the season. They have big fixtures coming up in both domestic and European competitions.
The Reds will face Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final at the Etihad Stadium. Also, they will be up against the reigning champions of Europe, PSG, in the Champions League quarter-final.
Arne Slot knows his squad must be fully ready as the margins are very small at this stage. Also, his team are in a race to secure Champions League qualification next season.
So, fitness has become a major focus. The Reds had a few concerns before the international break.
Hugo Ekitike picked up a knock in their last league game. He had to leave the pitch early against Brighton. It looked serious at the time. Ekitike was clearly in pain and even left the field in tears.
So, there were immediate fears of a long-term injury. That would have been a huge blow for Liverpool. However, the situation has improved since then.
Arne Slot later clarified that it was not a serious issue. He described it as a dead leg after the match. That update already gave some hope. But the real test came during international duty.
Ekitike joined the French national team and featured in two matches. He even managed to score in one of them. So, that confirmed his fitness. He has come through both games without any problems.
There is also positive news in defence. Ibrahima Konate has now fully recovered. He had been dealing with discomfort in his hamstring. That forced him to miss a recent match.
However, he is now back to full fitness. So, Liverpool have received a major double boost ahead of facing Manchester City and PSG.
AND THE SECOND GOAL! 🔥😍
Great hold-up play from Olise who times the pass perfectly to Ekitiké. The Reds striker lifts it over the Brazilian keeper to grab his second goal for France 💪
🇧🇷0-2🇫🇷 #BRAFRA pic.twitter.com/XbTOyAW9qW
— French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) March 26, 2026
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