Michael Owen has expressed his admiration for Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike, predicting that the 23-year-old Frenchman could soon establish himself among Europe's premier strikers. Following a remarkable performance against Newcastle United, where Ekitike scored twice in a 4-1 victory, Owen believes he has the potential to rival established stars like Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe, and Robert Lewandowski in the near future.

With the absence of Alexander Isak, who is valued at £125million, Ekitike has proven his worth by stepping into a more significant role on the field, earning him comparisons to Liverpool's historical star, Fernando Torres. Owen's endorsement of Ekitike comes at a pivotal moment, suggesting that his exceptional form could see him transcend to the elite level within the next 12 months. The young striker's performances are seen as crucial not only for his personal career but also for Liverpool's aspirations in the Premier League.

This endorsement from Owen, a former Liverpool striker himself, highlights the rising expectations around Ekitike and signifies how quickly a player can ascend through the ranks in football. If Ekitike continues to shine and maintains his form, he could be a decisive factor in Liverpool's quest for success, and his growth may also attract attention from other major clubs across Europe, further elevating the stakes for the young striker.