Ekitike’s Impact Raises Questions Over Isak’s Role

Wayne Rooney, former Manchester United and England striker, has highlighted a dilemma for Liverpool regarding Alexander Isak’s position upon his return from injury, due to the impressive form of Hugo Ekitike.

The 23-year-old Ekitike scored twice as Liverpool overturned a deficit to defeat Newcastle at Anfield on Saturday. These goals brought his season total to 15 from 32 appearances across all competitions.

The French forward, who joined Liverpool for an initial £69 million from Eintracht Frankfurt, has developed a strong understanding with fellow high-profile signing Florian Wirtz. Wirtz, a £116 million acquisition from Bayer Leverkusen, has complemented Ekitike well in Liverpool’s attacking setup.

Isak’s Position Under Scrutiny

Rooney pointed out that the emerging partnership between Ekitike and Wirtz creates uncertainty about where Isak fits in once he recovers from a broken leg.

The Swedish international, 26, had scored three goals in 16 appearances for Liverpool before his injury sidelined him in December.

"I'd be more worried if I was Isak, sat there watching," Rooney said on the latest episode of The Wayne Rooney Show, available on .

"His Liverpool career just hasn't got up and going yet. Obviously they paid a lot of money for him and these two [Wirtz and Ekitike] seem to have a real good understanding of each other's game and they look like a real threat."

Rooney Praises Ekitike’s Playing Style

Rooney also praised Ekitike’s style of play, particularly highlighting his second goal against Newcastle.

"Ekitike's second goal in particular was brilliant, it reminds me of Romario. A little toe-poke goal but it's instinctive.

"He is the type of player I like to watch. He's not a number nine, he's not a number 10. He drifts out wide, he gets on the ball, brings players into the game and he can score goals. So he's got a bit of everything really."