‘Think twice’: Chiesa gives honest take on Ekitike’s ‘naive’ red card for Liverpool
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Many people have had their say on Hugo Ekitike’s sending off, even team-mates.
The Reds made it through to the fourth round of the EFL Cup on Tuesday night after a 2-1 win over Southampton, although the result has been overshadowed by events on the pitch.
Ekitike got himself a second yellow card for taking his shirt off while celebrating the winner, with this leaving fans and his team-mates rather annoyed.
This ‘absolutely ridiculous’ moment from the Frenchman means he is now banned for their game against Crystal Palace on Sunday, something that could cost them dearly.
Almost all the questions post-game were about this incident, and it is fair to say that Federico Chiesa’s honest take sums it up perfectly.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Luckily for Ekitike, his sending off did not cost them the game, although he has his team-mates to thank for seeing it out.
But after the start to the season he has had, not having him available for a tricky away game at the weekend is far from ideal, even if they do have Alexander Isak waiting in the wings.
Of course, he will learn from something like this, and this is exactly what Chiesa said when questioned about it after the game.
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“It was a bit naive from him.
It was naive because we need him, he is a fantastic player,” Chiesa said as per the This Is Anfield YouTube channel.
“Even today he showed that and that he is always there when we need a goal, just like Isak.
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“So I am really sorry for him but he is young, has to improve, and next time he has to think twice before doing something like that.”
He certainly will not be doing it again that is for sure, with Arne Slot already suggesting how he should have celebrated, with this something he will keep in mind for the future.
With all the drama surrounding the red card, some may forget just how good Chiesa really was for the Reds, with the winger certainly making the most of his opportunity.
The Italian provided the assist for both goals and worked tirelessly throughout, with the 27-year-old winning the Man of the Match award for his efforts.
Whether he gets more chances is yet to be seen but he has certainly not harmed his chances whatsoever, with this performance a real statement to his manager.
Who knows, he may even get a chance at the weekend given Ekitike’s suspension, suggesting that it is not just Isak who may benefit in his absence.