Liverpool face a selection dilemma ahead of their Premier League clash with Crystal Palace after Hugo Ekitike’s suspension. The French striker, who joined from Eintracht Frankfurt for £79m this summer, has started strongly with five goals and an assist in eight games, but was sent off against Southampton for removing his shirt in celebration. He will now serve a one-match ban.
Normally, record £125m signing Alexander Isak would lead the line, but his fitness is still being carefully managed after a disrupted pre-season at Newcastle. He scored his first Liverpool goal against Southampton but hasn’t played a full 90 minutes since last season.
Head coach Arne Slot has several alternatives. Federico Chiesa impressed recently with two assists and could be used in attack, while Cody Gakpo might be shifted centrally, though Slot has preferred him on the left. Another option is a “false nine” system, potentially involving new signing Florian Wirtz alongside Dominik Szoboszlai, with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch also competing for midfield spots.
A wildcard pick would be 19-year-old Jayden Danns, who returned from injury this week and has already scored three goals in 10 senior appearances. His father once played for Crystal Palace, adding sentimental value if he were handed a start.
Ultimately, Slot must decide whether to risk Isak, reshuffle his system, or place trust in his squad depth to cover for Ekitike’s absence.
