Hugo Ekitike is expected to be sidelined until 2027 after suffering a serious Achilles injury, while the UK Prime Minister has pledged to implement a full Hillsborough Law.
Hugo Ekitike Achilles injury: Possible 9-12 months out
Ekitike faces the prospect of not playing again in 2026 after the injury he sustained in the first half against PSG due to a suspected rupture of his Achilles.
The Frenchman was sent for scans on Wednesday, but reports throughout the day have strongly speculated he could be set for a recovery timeline of at least nine months.
At the time of writing, the following reports have claimed:
• talkSPORT: Achilles tendon injury – could be sidelined for up to nine months
• The Athletic: Suspected rupture – could be unavailable well into next season
• ESPN: Ruptured Achilles (heard it snap) – out for at least nine months
• The Times: May be ruled out for the rest of the year
• L’Equipe: Ruptured right Achilles tendon, to miss several months of competition
It is a huge blow for Ekitike and Liverpool, who now face the realistic prospect of being without the striker until January 2027 or beyond due to the nature of the recovery process.
Sadly, there’s no guarantee he will return the same player.
Hillsborough tributes on 37th anniversary
• Virgil van Dijk and Arne Slot laid a wreath at the Anfield memorial this morning, with the team then observing a minute’s silence at the AXA (LFC)
• Clubs put aside their rivalries to pay their respects to the 97 and the families and survivors affected, with the likes of Man United, Arsenal and Man City all showing their support
• Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reaffirmed the commitment to implement a comprehensive Hillsborough Law – it’s time to get the Bill passed! (Independent)
• Gone but never forgotten – Rest in Peace The 97
Hillsborough: The Truth
On April 15, 1989, a crush took place at Hillsborough killing 97 people, almost all Liverpool fans. The Hillsborough Independent Panel Report confirmed the facts, including unlawful killings.
Football News: Harry Maguire ban and Kieran McKenna eyed by Bournemouth
• Harry Maguire will miss Man United‘s match against Chelsea this weekend with his misconduct charge to be upheld by the FA, this is for swearing at the fourth official – not just Virgil, then! (The Athletic)
• Everton unveiled a permanent tribute to the 97 at Hill Dickinson Stadium on the 37th anniversary, Kenny Dalglish and Ian Rush were among those in attendance. Classy move
• Kieran McKenna is reportedly on Bournemouth‘s short list of managerial targets after they announced Andoni Iraola will depart at the end of the season – would you take him at Anfield? (Sky Sports)
• Aston Villa are described as monitoring Man City goalkeeper James Trafford if Emiliano Martinez does depart in the summer, a year after his expected exit. Wouldn’t mind Liverpool keeping tabs either (Mail)
Remembering the 97
Today we remember the 97 and all those affected by the Hillsborough disaster on what is the 37th anniversary.
Our thoughts today are with all those affected by the tragedy.
In memory of the 97 supporters who went to watch their beloved Reds but never returned. May they rest in peace and never be forgotten.