Liverpool manager Arne Slot indicated on Wednesday that striker Hugo Ekitike is unlikely to feature in Thursday’s Premier League clash against leaders Arsenal, as the French forward has yet to return to training following a hamstring issue.

Ekitike, who has scored eight league goals this season, missed Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Fulham due to what Slot described as a minor injury. With Liverpool facing a quick turnaround, time is running out for the forward to be ready.

“He hasn’t trained with us up until now,” Slot said. “Let’s see if he can train with us today. Two or three days ago, when we played against Fulham, I said he wouldn’t be out for long, but it’s hard because the games come so fast. He is in‑between maybe training with the team or it maybe taking him one or two days extra.”

Ekitike’s potential absence would be another setback for Slot, who is already without Alexander Isak due to a leg fracture and Mohamed Salah on Africa Cup of Nations duty.

In his absence, Slot is likely to rely on Cody Gakpo as the most advanced attacker. The Netherlands international has contributed five Premier League goals and three assists this season and could lead the line as holders Liverpool attempt to halt Arsenal’s title charge.

Liverpool, currently fourth in the table, trail Arsenal by 14 points. Despite their injury concerns, Slot’s side heads to north London on the back of a nine-game unbeaten run across all competitions. However, the manager acknowledged that not all of those matches have resulted in victories.

“It is nine games unbeaten, but we have definitely had two draws too many,” Slot said. “Where are we? I think I’ve said so many times that the answer to that question is we aren’t where we want to be, but I feel we have a very talented squad. If everyone’s available and ready, then I think we can do special things.”