‘It wasn’t smart’ – Arne Slot reveals how Liverpool have dealt with Hugo Ekitike over ‘stupid’ red card
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Arne Slot has declared Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike will face no internal punishment after his 'stupid' red card against Southampton.
Ekitike was sent off immediately after scoring a late winner for the Reds in their 2-1 Carabao Cup victory at Anfield on Tuesday night.
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In bizarre circumstances, the striker celebrated and then walked straight down the tunnel after being given his marching orders.
Slot has been open in his disappointment of Ekitike's actions, but has declared the player has avoided any further internal sanctions.
When asked on Friday whether he had been disciplined, Slot replied: "Disciplined means a fine, which he didn't get.
"It wasn't very smart what he did and what he recognised himself immediately straight away.
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"He said sorry straight away to his teammates, he is young and players of all ages make mistakes and that's what he did in this situation as well.
"But we all make mistakes, you are allowed at this club to make a mistake without immediately getting fines.
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Slot has not fined Ekitike for his red card against Southampton in midweekCredit: Getty
"He is a fantastic human being and I think if you talk to all the staff members and ask them the top three of the warmest people and most polite, I think he is in every staff member's top three.
Even if he wasn't, he is able to make a mistake.
"It wasn't smart, it didn't hurt us on Tuesday evening, but it might hurt us a bit more tomorrow.
"The positive thing is, [Federico] Chiesa is showing himself at the moment so it's a chance for him now to be on the bench and maybe play minutes with Hugo not being there."
Slot's view on Ekititke has softened having slammed his mistake earlier in the week.
However, Slot has spoken openly about Isak and his lack of match fitness following his £125m summer move.
Isak didn't have a pre-season and is a way behind his Liverpool teammates physically after refusing to play for Newcastle.
Hugo Ekitike's apology
Ekitike released a public apology on social media in midweek.
"Thanks to the fans who always support us and to my teammates for this victory!"
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Isak is still not fit enough to play 90 minutes in Ekitike's placeCredit: Getty
It has meant he hasn't played a full game for the Reds so far, having his minutes managed - and that isn't expected to change.
The Liverpool boss said: "He is able to play minutes, 90 is still dependent on the pace and intensity of the game.
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"Also, for the long term, it may be a stupid hit to bring him to 90 [minutes] and we brought him too far over the line.
"So, it's not smart to play 90 yet.