Andoni Iraola needs attacker who 'can do everything' back at Liverpool now
Liverpool haven't been at their best this season.
The Reds are currently fifth in the Premier League and, although they may have only lost two games across all competitions, they still find themselves nine points behind league leaders, Arsenal.
In fact, their performance against Mikel Arteta's men on Sunday afternoon proved how much more they have to do before they're considered as genuine title challengers.
Once this happens, fans will feel a lot of relief but, right now, some serious questions need to be asked.
The Reds have spent over £600 million on new players across the last couple of campaigns but, it still feels like they're worse off.
So, that's why, right now, Andoni Iraola needs an attacker to make his return to Anfield.
Liverpool need Hugo Ekitike to return from injury as soon as possible
Sunday's defeat against Arsenal may have had four shots on target from Liverpool but, the fact that their most expensive attack ever couldn't get the ball into the back of the net is obviously a major concern.
There have obviously been times this season when certain attackers have done better than others but, none of them have managed to perform at their best during the same game.
For example, Alexander Isak and Bradley Barcola have both had their own moments in games throughout the season but, when used alongside one another, they can't seem to get things flowing.
So, that's why, especially after what Iraola said about his team on Sunday, Hugo Ekitike needs to return to action as soon as possible.
"We had big chances. Cross bar, real big chances. We should have scored, and had enough to score today," Iraola said in quotes relayed by Anfield Sector.
Hugo Ekitike could help turn Liverpool's fortunes around instantly
Once Ekitike returns from injury, it feels like things will start to look up for Liverpool.
The Frenchman was easily their best attacker last term and, without him, there's no chance that they'd have qualified for the Champions League.
And, the fact that Iraola included him in his Champions League squad despite him not being available proves how good he actually is.
Indeed, he may have cost around £50 million less than Isak but, if you asked Liverpool fans who they'd prefer to have leading their attack at the moment, they're likely to say Ekitike's name.
The 24-year-old probably still has a month or two before he's ready to fight for a place in Iraola's starting XI but, as soon as the Spaniard can add him to his ranks, the better.
