Hugo Ekitike: We showed our mentality

On what Slot has asked him to do and if it’s natural for him to drop deeper at times…

Yeah, I think it’s natural. I also changed my way to play here because I think it’s also different football, with more intensity. The defenders are stronger and we have tight space here. I had so much more space in Germany. That’s why I try to come, link and go, try to run behind. But we have to find the way to succeed with the details, because it’s not [enough to be] ‘good’ anymore and we just have to get better.

On his goal…

I attracted the defender, I came to link up and I was a bit lucky with the touch, the ball came back to me. At the end it’s an easy goal but I have to stay calm in front of the goal and just do my job, so keep going.

On being involved in Liverpool’s build-up play, including the assist for Gakpo’s goal…

I try to think before the defenders and to read the game. To know what the other players around me are going to do. I knew the defenders like to come and press me so I know at my back or on the side I will have space. I just attracted him and I knew Cody will be there. It’s special, he’s really good when he comes inside with his right foot. I went and it made a difference so I’m happy for him.

On his first impressions of the Premier League…

It’s a dream. I always dreamed to play here in the Premier League so I just enjoy every minute. It’s an amazing stadium. The fans at the end when it was at 2-2, they pushed so much. Even on the bench, I enjoyed it. I wanted to be in the crowd! It’s just amazing. But it’s the first game, we have so much to do to get better and to reach our goals.

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