Chiesa insists Hugo Ekitike has to improve after red card | OneFootball

Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa says Hugo Ekitike has to improve after the striker was sent off in their 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Southampton.

After scoring the winning goal for the Reds in the 85th minute the Frenchman took his shirt off in celebration and received a second yellow card. His first booking came just ten minutes earlir in the 55th minute for punching the ball away after conceding a free kick.

He will now miss Liverpool’s next game against Crystal Palace and Chiesa believes the 23-year-old has to learn from this setback.

“It was really naive because we need him,” the Italian forward said. “He’s a fantastic player, he showed even today that he’s always there when we need a goal, just like Isak.

“I’m really sorry for him, but he’s young and he has to improve, and next time he has to think twice before doing something like that.”

Chiesa was left out of Liverpool’s squad for the Champions League because they already have the maximum 17 non home-grown players listed. Despite that, Chiesa believes that he can still show his talent for Liverpool this season.

“Of course I’m sorry I’m not part of the Champions League squad,” he said. “Every player dreams of playing in the Champions League.

“I just said to the coach, ‘OK, no problem.’ I’m just going to keep working hard and get my chances in the Carabao Cup and the Premier League, because I’m a professional player, I play for Liverpool, and already playing for Liverpool is amazing.”

“I’m glad that I also made some contributions in the Premier League. That’s what Liverpool wants from every player that plays for Liverpool.

“That’s what the coach wants, but also what the other player wants, because if you play for Liverpool you have to make the difference. I’m very happy at the moment and I have to keep working hard to get more chances in the future.”