New Delhi, Jan. 4 -- Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has revealed the reason behind star striker Hugo Ekitike's absence from the squad for their Premier League clash against Fulham on Sunday (January 4). The decision raised concerns ahead of a crucial showdown with leaders Arsenal.

The French forward, who has been in impressive form as Liverpool's leading scorer this season, will sit out for the Fulham match due to a minor hamstring issue. Slot attributed the problem to the intense festive schedule and Ekitike's heavy workload.

With key attackers sidelined, the 23-year-old has shouldered much of the responsibility up front. Mohamed Salah has missed recent games while representing Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, and fellow striker Ale...