Hugo Ekitike has spoken for the first time after signing for Liverpool ahead of Newcastle United.
It has been a gruelling period for Eddie Howe, who is facing up to the reality of Alexander Isak wanting to leave.
Before that, there was the disappointment of Liverpool signing Ekitike ahead of the Magpies.
Newcastle thought they could sign Ekitike, as they attempted to break their transfer record. However, the 23-year-old has officially become a Liverpool player instead.
Hugo Ekitike explains what he would have brought to Newcastle United
Missing out on Ekitike for a third time is disappointing for Newcastle United, and his decision to join Liverpool will be all the more painful for Eddie Howe after the attacker’s first interview as a Red.
Having joined up with the rest of the Liverpool squad in Hong Kong, Ekitike has spoken about his versatility as a forward.
“I mean, I do what the coach asks me to do, but yeah, I like to do everything,” he said.
“I can’t define myself only as a striker [who likes] to finish: I like to play, I like to be in the game, in the collective part of play [and] create also.
“So, I can do both – I can play alone and I like to play also with another striker and I think that’s what makes me versatile, but you know now in this football you need to adapt.”
Newcastle United’s Hugo Ekitike approach makes even more sense after Alexander Isak revelation
Based on the way that Ekitike describes himself, it is easy to understand why Eddie Howe wanted him at St James’ Park.
The Newcastle United manager will be so disappointed to miss out, especially in light of Isak’s Newcastle stance.
The 25-year-old is keen to move on, so it makes sense that Newcastle targeted a player who can operate in a similar way. Isak can drop deep and create, which is what Ekitike believes he can do too.
The Frenchman also believes he can play in a front two, which is what Newcastle United wanted him to do for them. The plan was for Ekitike to play alongside Isak, but now the only way that will happen is if the latter moves to Anfield.
That remains a possibility, with Liverpool interested in Isak. There is also interest from Al-Hilal, but Isak wants to remain in a top league. Therefore, a move to the Saudi Pro League is not really an option.
