Wirtz and Ekitike have assisted each other five times in all competitions this season – the most by two players aged 23 and younger for Liverpool since Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard in 2002-03 (nine), according to Opta’s Michael Reid.
The pair have been a silver lining for the club this season after what has been a disappointing title defence that may see the side fail to grab Champions League football.
Liverpool face Sunderland on Wednesday night as they aim to jump back into the top five and come closer to Manchester United and Chelsea.
Speaking ahead of the game, Wirtz commented on Ekitike and his love for playing alongside him in what has become a strong bond.
“Yeah, I said it often already that it's really a joy to play with him. We have so many good players in the team. You can see that he's one of the guys you like to watch.
“Even for me, I like to see him on the pitch and in training. It's just fun to combine with him, he gives me a lot of assists already and I just try to help him also to achieve his goals.
“He's a good friend of mine. We are very close. So yeah, it's just fun to play with him.”
Steven Gerrard likened Ekitike to former Liverpool striker Fernando Torres, who scored 81 goals in 142 games for the club between 2007 and 2011. In that case, Wirtz would be Gerrard in a Liverpool side who are relying on the pair more than ever as the season continues.