“Official announcement about ‘outstanding’ Anfield star set to shock Liverpool supporters.”

The club football season will take a break next week for the first round of autumn international fixtures, and one Liverpool player already knows he won’t be taking part.

After Liverpool’s high-stakes clash with Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday, many members of Arne Slot’s squad will depart for international duty across Europe and beyond.

But somewhat unexpectedly, one player will remain on Merseyside during the first half of September instead of joining up with his national team.

Hugo Ekitike overlooked by France boss Didier Deschamps

France manager Didier Deschamps has officially revealed his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine and Iceland via the national team’s X (formerly Twitter) account.

Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté is included in the squad, while Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche earns his first call-up.

However, Hugo Ekitike is a notable omission. Despite scoring in all three of his opening matches for Liverpool and coming off a 22-goal season with Eintracht Frankfurt, the striker has once again been left out and is still waiting to make his senior debut for France.

Tough on Ekitike – but Liverpool won’t mind the rest

Although reports last weekend hinted that Ekitike might be left out due to France’s depth in attacking talent, his exclusion still comes as a surprise, particularly given his recent form.

France legend Thierry Henry recently praised Ekitike as “outstanding” after he scored against Newcastle on Monday – his third goal in as many games for Liverpool.

Ironically, while Ekitike misses out despite his excellent start, Konaté has retained his place in the France squad, even though he has had a tough start to the season and received heavy criticism from pundits.

Deschamps’ continued backing could give Konaté a confidence boost ahead of the Arsenal game, while Ekitike will no doubt be eager to use the break as motivation to prove the national team manager wrong.

It may feel harsh on Liverpool’s in-form number 22, but if staying back means avoiding injury and getting some rest, Reds fans likely won’t be too upset about it.