Hugo Ekitike targets Boxing Day return from Achilles injury

Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike is reportedly targeting a return on Boxing Day following a ruptured Achilles tendon sustained in April. While the 24-year-old has undergone surgery and is progressing through rehabilitation, medical staff suggest it may take until next season for him to reach full competitive sharpness.

Other injury updates for the club include Joe Gomez and Federico Chiesa. Gomez is recovering from a muscle injury and is expected to be available for the match against Ipswich on September 4. Chiesa is also sidelined with a small muscle injury sustained during a pre-season match against Como, but his return is also anticipated around the same period.