Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has echoed the views of Wayne Rooney regarding Hugo Ekitike, with both pundits offering strong praise for the French forward despite a slight dip in recent scoring form.
Ekitike has made a significant impact since arriving at Anfield from Eintracht Frankfurt during the 2025 summer transfer window.
His performances earlier in the campaign established him as a key attacking figure, and even though goals have slowed in recent weeks, confidence in his long-term ability remains high.
Rooney had previously suggested that Ekitike has been Liverpool’s standout performer this season, and Owen has now offered a similar assessment of the striker’s overall quality.
Despite the recent slowdown in front of goal, Owen remains convinced that Ekitike’s ability and overall contribution to the team continue to stand out.
Rather than focusing solely on short-term form, the former England international has pointed to the Frenchman’s technical strengths and intelligence as reasons for long-term optimism.
Speaking recently, Owen described Ekitike as a player with exceptional qualities and predicted that his influence at Liverpool will continue to grow.
He labelled the forward as “brilliant,” reinforcing the growing belief among former players that Ekitike has the tools required to become a leading figure at Anfield.
Such praise carries significant weight given Owen’s experience as a striker at the highest level. His approval also adds to the growing narrative that Liverpool have secured a forward capable of delivering consistently over the long term.
While every striker experiences quieter periods, elite forwards are often judged on their broader contributions to team play. Ekitike’s movement, link-up ability and positional awareness have all been highlighted as strengths that extend beyond simply scoring goals.
With Liverpool continuing to rely heavily on their attacking options, maintaining confidence in players like Ekitike will be essential. If his early-season form returns, there is little doubt he could once again become one of the most dangerous forwards in the league.
