Hugo Ekitike has apologized in public to Liverpool fans after being given a red card for pulling off his shirt after scoring a late League Cup winner against Southampton. The 23-year-old French forward labeled the action “stupid” and accepted that he let his emotions take control.
Red card arrived in dramatic style as Ekitike slid in Federico Chiesa’s pass in the 85th minute to seal a 2-1 Liverpool victory over second-tier Southampton at Anfield. The goal arrived moments after Shea Charles had levelled for Southampton, sending Liverpool on a thrilling late Carabao Cup third-round victory.
Liverpool vs Southampton: The Moment That Cost Ekitike
Ekitike, substituting £125-million signing Alexander Isak at half-time, took his winner by sprinting to the corner flag and pulling off his shirt for the cameras. Referee Thomas Bramall, in accordance with the guidelines, produced a second yellow, a straight red card.
The striker’s suspension now keeps him out of Liverpool’s next Premier League visit to Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Ekitike Speaks Out: “Emotion Got The Better Of Me”
After the incident, Ekitike posted on Instagram to apologize to Liverpool supporters.
“I was so hyped tonight to assist the team to get another win here in our home for my first Carabao Cup game,” he stated.
“The emotion got the better of me tonight. Sorry to all the Red family.”
The France forward, who signed with Liverpool in July for £69 million, emphasized that he never meant to offend the club or its fans.
Arne Slot Describes Celebration “Needless” and “Stupid”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot was clearly less than impressed with the affair, terming the celebration “needless” and “stupid.
I said to him if you score in the Champions League final in the 87th minute having played three of them off the park and placed it in the top corner I can perhaps get it,” Slot said.
“He is like, ‘This is all about me, what did I do?’ But I am old-fashioned, I’m 47 and old. I never played at this level but did score a few goals and if I scored a goal like this, I’d have turned around and walked up to Federico Chiesa and said: ‘This goal is all about you, this is not about me.'”
Ekitike’s Season So Far
In spite of the red card, Ekitike has started the season well, netting three times in five Premier League matches. He will, however, have to fight for a forward’s spot against Alexander Isak and be disciplined to play regularly.
Liverpool supporters will wish that Ekitike directs his passion in a positive way in future games, so that his ability is displayed without unwanted disciplinary trouble.
