Hugo Ekitike was in bullish spirits after scoring in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Everton, saying he “felt” the power of Anfield.
The 23-year-old has made a promising start to life with the Reds, netting four times in seven appearances and impressing in his all-round game.
Ekitike scored clinically at home to Everton on Saturday, enjoying a dream Merseyside derby debut and helping Liverpool to victory.
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Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com after the game, the Frenchman was in delighted spirits, discussing the influence of the Anfield crowd.
“Top. Top, top,” Ekitike said.
“Obviously I knew that game was really important for the fans, so a win today was important. I felt the stadium and the crowd was very loud today.
“It’s a very proud feeling, happy feeling. We just have to keep going.
“[It] was a good first half. When they came back, it was a bit difficult with the 2-1.
“But we just kept the right mentality until the end and I think that’s what made the difference at the end.”
Ekitike also showed the hunger he possesses when it comes to being a relentless goalscorer, saying he is driven to find the net every week.
“I want to score every game, if you ask me,” he added.
“The last game I didn’t score but I always try to find a way to make the difference. It can be a goal, an assist, a run to create space for another player. It’s good.
“At the end, the most important [thing] is the team and it’s the three points today.”
It has been such an impressive opening few months in a Liverpool shirt for Ekitike, who has shone so much leading the line, from good finishing to clever link-up play.
While the arrival of Alexander Isak threatens to limit his playing time, he is still going to get many minutes, with the Reds playing in four separate competitions this season.
Ekitike can also shine on the left wing, so he could also start alongside Isak and in place of Cody Gakpo, who isn’t in the best form currently.
At 23, there is so much more to come from the France striker, and the early signs are nothing but encouraging.