What happened: Hugo Ekitike has advanced his rehabilitation from the Achilles rupture suffered during Liverpool's Champions League exit to PSG in April. The 24-year-old is expected to continue his recovery with Liverpool's medical staff later this month.
Why it matters: His absence leaves Liverpool without last season's leading scorer for the opening months of the new campaign. A return around Christmas is possible, but the club is expected to manage his recovery cautiously.
By the numbers: Ekitike suffered the injury on April 14, nearly three months ago. Initial recovery estimates ranged from eight to nine months, while his current target points to a possible return around the Boxing Day fixtures.
What to watch: His next rehabilitation phase will begin after he returns to Merseyside. Progress toward running and full team training will provide clearer indications of his comeback date.