Liverpool fitness update: Ekitike given Champions League return target before Fulham

Andoni Iraola says Hugo Ekitike could return for Liverpool’s final two league-phase matches in the Champions League, although the manager believes it is too early to make a firm prediction.

Liverpool host Fulham at Anfield at 17:00 on Saturday in the fourth round of the Premier League, with Iraola also providing updates on Bradley Barcola and Cody Gakpo before the match.

Liverpool have lost only two of their previous 33 home meetings with Fulham, recording 32 wins, eight draws and two defeats.

“There is a possibility Hugo Ekitike could make the last two games of the league phase in the Champions League, but it is too early to say that,” Iraola said at his pre-match news conference.

Liverpool began their Champions League league phase campaign with a 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid.

Barcola suffered a muscle strain and will be assessed before the Fulham game, but Iraola expects him to be available.

“Barcola had a muscle strain and we have to assess his condition today. I think he will be ready to play,” he said.

On Gakpo, Iraola added: “We will see whether he is ready for tomorrow’s match or whether we need to wait until the next game.”

Liverpool remain unbeaten since the start of the season, having drawn two Premier League matches and won two games across the Premier League and Champions League.

The manager said the team needed to become more clinical after creating opportunities in every match.

“The team has targets. In all the games we have been dangerous and created chances,” Iraola said. “We have scored two goals in the last two matches and could have scored more. It is about being more effective.”

He also identified the timing of Liverpool’s goals as an area for improvement.

“It is about when we score the goals because I do not think we start the matches well,” he said. “Compare that with the Ipswich game. Matches feel more comfortable when you start in that way.”

Liverpool produced a comfortable Premier League victory over Ipswich Town, with Alexander Isak scoring twice in the opening nine minutes, in the sixth and ninth minutes.

Iraola expects a competitive test from Fulham, despite the limited number of games played so far this season.

“They have played three league matches, so it is too early to draw conclusions about any team. Fulham are a great example,” he said. “I think they have performed well in all three of their matches.”

“If you look at the statistics, you would think they should have at least four or five points. They have controlled matches through their possession.”

Iraola also praised Lewis Koumas after the youngster made his Champions League debut.

“In my first week here, I told the club I wanted him to stay. I had very little doubt because he can play in every attacking position,” he said.

“He trains extremely well, has a great sporting attitude and is a wonderful player. He also scores goals. I see him as ready to help us, and I am impressed by what he gives us. I am very happy to have him with us.”