Liverpool’s trip to the Stadium of Light came with pressure hanging in the air.

After falling 2-1 to Manchester City, Arne Slot’s side needed a response against Sunderland — and one particular Reds forward caught the attention of TNT Sports during the first half.

Ekitike Growing Into a Key Figure

During the broadcast, the pundit highlighted something noticeable about Hugo Ekitike’s role in this Liverpool team.

According to him, teammates appear increasingly eager to involve the French striker in attacking moves. The feeling is that his influence within the squad is expanding week by week.

With Mohamed Salah not quite firing on all cylinders, Liverpool seem to be shifting more responsibility toward Ekitike in the final third. The 23-year-old is no longer just participating — he’s becoming central to how the Reds build their attacks.

And it’s not just talk.

The former Eintracht Frankfurt forward has delivered eight goal involvements in his last nine Premier League appearances — numbers that underline his growing importance.

The Wirtz Connection 👀

A major reason behind Ekitike’s rise has been his understanding with fellow summer arrival Florian Wirtz.

The pair are already forming a dangerous attacking partnership, combining for goals at a rate unmatched by any of Ekitike’s previous teammates in his career so far.

What makes it even more exciting? Some analysts believe Wirtz is still adjusting to the physical demands of English football.

If this is them while adapting… imagine what happens when they hit top gear.

That partnership could become one of the league’s most feared duos.

First-Half Performance vs Sunderland – What Do the Numbers Say?

Despite the praise, the raw statistics from the opening 45 minutes tell a more balanced story.

Ekitike’s First-Half Stats:

• 1 shot (none on target)
• 18 touches
• Completed 1 of 2 dribbles
• 1 recovery
• Won 1 of 4 ground duels
• Won his only aerial duel

A 6.5/10 rating reflects a steady, rather than dominant, display.

But numbers don’t always reveal the full picture.

Movement off the ball, positional awareness, and the ability to drag defenders out of shape often go unnoticed in statistical breakdowns. Ekitike’s interplay with Wirtz, in particular, has been stretching Sunderland’s defensive line and creating pockets of space.

A Goal Feels Close…

Liverpool finished the first half applying sustained pressure, and momentum appears to be building.

If the breakthrough comes, don’t be surprised if it involves either Ekitike or Wirtz.

Right now, all signs suggest the Reds’ evolving attack may revolve around that developing partnership — especially on nights when Salah isn’t at his clinical best.

And if that trend continues, Liverpool may have just found their new focal point up front.