‘Ekitike was Torres-esque against Newcastle’ – Liverpool fan revels after 4-1 win | OneFootball

Hugo Ekitike Channels Fernando Torres as Liverpool Smash Newcastle

Liverpool’s emphatic 4–1 win over Newcastle United brought a wave of relief and optimism to Anfield, but it was Hugo Ekitike’s standout performance that stole the headlines. Speaking on Anfield Index’s Late Night Live, Lewis Aspinall offered glowing praise for the French striker, even going as far as comparing his impact to that of Fernando Torres in his debut Liverpool season.

“He’s Our Killer Up Top Now”

Ekitike scored twice in a second-half blitz that overwhelmed a weakened Newcastle side, and Aspinall was full of admiration. “Ekitike is our killer up top now,” he said. “We’ve lacked that focal point through the middle for a good number of years now… and he’s done just that this season.”

Aspinall’s analysis centred around Ekitike’s all-around centre-forward play — his movement, composure and physical dominance. “He can run with it, he can play off other players, he can come deep to receive the ball, he’s physically strong, he’s great in the air, he’s quick, he’s so tactically composed — but he can finish the ball.”

Ekitike now has 10 Premier League goals and 2 assists, contributing in every domestic and European competition, and becoming the first Liverpool player since Kenny Dalglish to score in five different competitions in his debut season. “I wasn’t convinced when we signed him,” Aspinall admitted, “but I’m so happy I’ve been proven wrong.”

Reminiscent of Torres and Gerrard

One of the most striking moments from the podcast came when Aspinall linked Ekitike’s burgeoning connection with Florian Wirtz to a legendary Liverpool duo. “The link-up between him and Wirtz… it’s not to the same extent of course, but Torres and Gerrard is the thing that keeps getting touted around. It feels like that.”

Ekitike’s ability to play off the last defender, hold the ball up, and allow Wirtz to float around him, mirrors how Torres once thrived on Gerrard’s incisive service. “It doesn’t feel like individuals are carrying us anymore,” said Aspinall. “It feels like there’s a collection of players now that are gelling for the same cause.”

Best Half of Football This Season

For Aspinall, this wasn’t just about one player. “That second half was the best bar none,” he stated. “We were absolutely class and made up with the performance and the individual performances.”

Photo: IMAGO

While conceding to Anthony Gordon early on, Liverpool responded in dominant fashion. Aspinall praised Arne Slot’s tactical adjustments and willingness to attack Newcastle’s weaknesses: “We controlled the game… and when Newcastle were stretched out of position, you had Ekitike running through the middle, Wirtz running through the middle — it was brilliant in that regard.”

The Emotional Weight Behind Ibou’s Goal

While Ekitike was the star, Aspinall also highlighted Ibrahima Konaté’s emotional goal. “For me, he was man of the match,” he said. “A true elite mentality… one of his best performances in a Liverpool shirt.” Referring to Konaté’s recent bereavement, Aspinall noted, “For him to have that moment… it was a huge moment of catharsis, just like Alisson’s goal or Titi Camara’s tribute.”