Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has cautioned Liverpool that the return of Alexander Isak could spark a tough selection dilemma, given Hugo Ekitike’s impressive performances for the Reds.
Rooney highlighted that Ekitike’s growing chemistry with fellow summer signing Florian Wirtz could complicate matters for Liverpool’s record signing once he is fully fit.
Ekitike was the standout in Liverpool’s 4-1 comeback win over Newcastle at Anfield on Saturday, scoring twice against Isak’s former club. The 23-year-old French forward now has 15 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions this season, underlining his immediate impact since arriving from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer for an initial £69 million.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sounds, Rooney praised the developing partnership between Ekitike and Wirtz, calling it a key part of Liverpool’s attacking threat. He noted that their understanding on the pitch raises questions about where Isak, currently recovering from a broken leg, will fit upon his return.
“I’d be more worried if I was Isak, sat there watching,” Rooney said. “His Liverpool career just hasn’t taken off yet. They paid a lot for him, but these two seem to have a really good understanding of each other’s game, and they look like a real threat.”
Rooney also singled out Ekitike’s finishing, particularly his second goal against Newcastle, calling it instinctive and comparing the move to legendary striker Romario’s style.
Isak, who joined Liverpool from Newcastle for a British record £125 million, has struggled to find form, scoring just three goals in 16 appearances before his injury setback in December. Rooney’s warning suggests the Swede will face stiff competition to regain his place in a side thriving under Ekitike’s form.
Leave a Reply