Both Isak and Ekitike were both on the scoresheet last weekend as Liverpool beat Tottenham 2-1. Unfortunately, the Swedish international was on the end of a reckless challenge by Micky Van de Ven which means he will be out for at least 3 months.
Isak’s injury means Ekitike will be Liverpool’s only recognized No.9 now for what could be the rest of the season. Speaking to Casinostugan, Riise has revealed that Ekitike’s impressive performances is putting immense pressure on Isak.
"Arne Slot looks like a coach who gives players opportunities based on performances. He doesn't care too much about the names, he wants the best possible starting eleven.
"I think it's a possibility that Hugo Ekitike is playing well because that also puts pressure on Alexander Isak to regain his form and prove his worth. For me, I don't care who plays as long as we win games and score goals.
"I do like when Slot gives players who perform a chance to keep playing, not because of their name, but because of their performances. He showed that with Mohamed Salah as well.
"Salah is the biggest player we have, but Slot dropped him for three games, leaving him out of the squad because he wasn't performing and showed a little bit of disrespect to him and the team. Slot will play Ekitike as long as Ekitike keeps performing."
Ekitike’s goal was his eighth non-penalty Premier League goal of the season and the Frenchman is set to start once more against Wolves, where he should prove his worth once more.