Hugo Ekitike issues apology after Liverpool red card leaves Arne Slot with new headache
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Hugo Ekitike has issued an apology after receiving his marching orders for removing his shirt following his decisive strike in Liverpool's League Cup triumph over Southampton.
The French forward netted the crucial goal against the Championship outfit to seal a 2-1 triumph at Anfield, and book the Reds' place in the fourth round in the process.
However, matters became considerably more challenging when he celebrated his close-range finish by whipping off his jersey and brandishing it towards the Liverpool supporters.
Upon removing his shirt, Jeremie Frimpong was the first teammate to admonish him on the field, informing him that his celebration had just left his side a man short.
The Reds were forced to dig deep and defend resolutely to preserve their triumph against the Saints.
Following the encounter, Ekitike was swift to acknowledge his error and issue an apology.
Via an Instagram story, he stated: "I was so excited tonight to help the team achieve another victory here in our home for my first Carabao Cup match.
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He will learn from it and I am sure he won't do it again."
Ekitike's red card means he will now be suspended for Liverpool's Premier League game against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday, presenting Arne Slot with a new headache as the Reds boss continues to manage Alexander Isak's minutes carefully.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story
You can read the original story in the Liverpool ECHO by clicking here.