Hugo Ekitike showed true colors in training ahead of Eintracht Frankfurt return with Liverpool

Hugo Ekitike was seen sporting an Eintracht Frankfurt training shirt prior to Liverpool's Champions League encounter with the German outfit.

The French striker moved to the Reds from Frankfurt during the summer transfer window for a £69 million (around $92M) fee - yet it appears his fondness for his previous club remains intact.

In footage circulated on social media last week, the 23-year-old was observed wearing Frankfurt attire whilst participating in a shooting exercise during international duty with France. Ekitike may have spent fewer than two years in Germany, but the club evidently continues to occupy a cherished position in his affections.

He arrived at Frankfurt from PSG in February 2024, initially on a temporary basis, before securing a permanent switch that summer.

The striker proceeded to net 22 goals during his maiden and sole complete campaign at Deutsche Bank Park, displays which secured him a lucrative transfer to Liverpool.

Following the completion of his Anfield switch, Ekitike posted a touching tribute on social media, characterising his connection with Frankfurt as "true love" and declaring the club was "engraved" within him.

He even extended good wishes to his former team in the Champions League - though he added with a knowing gesture: "Unless you face me."

"It's crazy how quickly time flies but leaves us indelible traces and memories," Ekitike penned on Instagram.

"I haven't forgotten anything since my first day among you.

"The truth is it's here that I learned love - true love. First the love of the most incredible fans ever (thank you for your love your warmth and your support, thank you for celebrated me as one of yours every time, I never felt like a stranger among you). Then the love of the entire club from top to bottom.

"You have each been at one time a shoulder or an ear for me. I grew up with you and I owe you for continuing to be what I have become among you and hold your values high... We never really leave those we love, even far from Deutsche Bank Park, I will fulfil my new role, being the first supporter of this club that I love."

He added: "Wish you guys well in the Champions League (unless you face me)."

Ekitike is anticipated to start against his former side on Wednesday, having only appeared as a substitute in Liverpool's 2-1 loss to Manchester United on Sunday.

The French striker made an explosive beginning to his Anfield career but his performances have declined somewhat in recent weeks.

He featured from the start in seven of Liverpool's opening eight fixtures this campaign, netting five times whilst providing one assist.

Nevertheless, in recent outings he has found himself playing second fiddle to fellow summer arrival Alexander Isak, who seems to have cemented his position as Arne Slot's first-choice striker. Since netting the decisive goal against Everton a month ago, Ekitike has been restricted to just 44 minutes of Premier League football.

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