France Include Injured Liverpool Striker Hugo Ekitike in Squad

Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike has been named in the French national squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers despite concerns over an injury sustained during Liverpool's Champions League defeat to Galatasaray. Ekitike, who left the match in the 68th minute with what was initially suspected as a hamstring issue, has suggested the problem may have been cramp, and Liverpool coach Arne Slot expressed cautious optimism about his fitness for the club's next Premier League game against Chelsea. France's coach Didier Deschamps included Ekitike in the squad alongside Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté and Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta, signaling confidence in Ekitike's recovery. Ekitike has shown impressive form this season with five goals and one assist in nine games since joining Liverpool and has quickly become an important attacking option for both club and country. Meanwhile, Liverpool faces further injury challenges with goalkeeper Alisson Becker ruled out of the Chelsea game due to a hamstring injury. Slot highlighted the need to manage player fitness carefully given the increased demands of the season and the risk of injuries due to insufficient pre-season preparation for some players.