Stephen Warnock claims Liverpool have a star who is getting ‘better and better’

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Former Liverpool man Stephen Warnock believes one player is improving each game under Arne Slot this season.

The Reds managed to maintain a lead after going two goals to the good for the first time this season as they beat Everton 2-1 at Anfield.

Ryan Gravenberch was sensational once again as he scored the opening goal and assisted the other goal in another dominant display.

His Dutch compatriot, Cody Gakpo, on the other hand, massively underwhelmed as Liverpool fans scolded the 26-year-old on Saturday.

And as Slot left £241 million worth of talent on the bench for the Merseyside derby, Warnock believes one player the Reds signed this summer is consistently improving in the Premier League.

Hugo Ekitike is improving each match at Liverpool

When speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s match coverage of the clash at Anfield, Warnock heaped praise on Hugo Ekitike after the Frenchman scored the Reds’ second goal on Saturday.

“Hugo Ekitike is just getting better and better. When he gets on the ball, he is a danger, and he has been so impressive in his short time at Liverpool.

“It’s a really smart finish, quick touch, and he passes it into the bottom corner. Jordan Pickford doesn’t stand a chance of getting anywhere near it, and Liverpool look very comfortable.”

Ekitike lost his place to Alexander Isak for the 3-2 win against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, but he reclaimed his starting berth for the derby as the Swede continues to work on his fitness.

The 22-year-old has certainly impressed since arriving at Anfield in a £69m move from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer, despite suggestions that he will soon become a rotation option once Isak is ready to consistently start matches.

His goal in his first Merseyside derby means the forward has scored three goals and added one assist in his first five competitive appearances for the Reds.

Ekitike is eager to challenge Isak to be the leading man for Liverpool this season, and after Gakpo’s woeful showing, Slot may soon be forced to consider how best to fit both his new centre forwards into the same starting line-up.

Hugo Ekitike wants to play alongside Alexander Isak at Liverpool

However, Ekitike has sent a direct message to Slot stating that he, in fact, wishes to play alongside Isak rather than compete against him.

Speaking after the final whistle to TNT Sport, the Frenchman revealed his stance when asked about his thoughts on starting ahead of the £125m man.

“I mean, he’s a very, very good player. I always watched him before I came here, so for me, him being here is really good, you know. I can learn and improve myself, and you know, it’s just competition, but I know we’re going to play together, we’re going to make a difference, and yeah, one day I hope we’re going to share the pitch.”

While the decision is ultimately up to the manager, Ekitike’s words certainly give Slot some food for thought as the forward is proving to be one of Liverpool’s most influential players.