Hugo Ekitike Speaks Out on First Liverpool Red Card – “It was not smart” | OneFootball

Liverpool Forward Hugo Ekitike Determined to Move Past Costly Red Card

Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike has publicly admitted that his red card in the Carabao Cup was “not smart”, expressing regret over the incident that left him suspended for the weekend’s Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace. The 23-year-old watched from home as his side fell to defeat at Selhurst Park, a loss that highlighted how much the Reds have come to rely on his sharpness in front of goal.

Ekitike’s dismissal came after two unnecessary yellow cards in the Cup tie. The first was for throwing the ball away in frustration, the second for removing his shirt in celebration of what turned out to be the winning goal. Liverpool manager Arne Slot did not hold back in his assessment, calling the episode both “needless” and “stupid”.

Reflecting on the lapse in judgement, Ekitike was candid when he spoke to reporters on Monday evening. “I think that was not smart,” he said. “I felt a bit disappointed to watch the boys from home on Saturday, but I apologised to everyone already, to all my teammates. That kind of thing won’t happen again, so I move on and I’m looking forward to playing and focusing on football.”

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Faith in His Young Striker

Slot, who led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season at Anfield, has shown unwavering belief in Ekitike since the Frenchman’s arrival. The Dutch coach is known for demanding discipline as well as flair from his forwards, and Ekitike’s suspension was an unwelcome reminder of the fine line between passion and rashness.

Nevertheless, Ekitike is expected to return to the starting eleven on Tuesday night, replacing Alexander Isak, who played 84 minutes at the weekend. His inclusion could be key as Liverpool aim to bounce back swiftly from the defeat at Palace.

Partnership Potential with Isak

Much of the intrigue surrounding Liverpool’s attack revolves around whether Ekitike and Isak can operate together as a front pair. Ekitike has welcomed the competition and believes that having another striker of Isak’s calibre can only be positive.

“I can’t see one big club playing with just one striker, so it is good that he is here,” Ekitike said. “For my age, I still have a lot of things to improve and learn so, for me, it is good that he is here. That’s the coach to decide how he wants to play, not me, but I’ve been playing in two striker compositions and one striker, so I can do a lot of things. And if we have to play together, I can do that.”

His willingness to adapt underlines a maturity that belies the rash moment which led to his suspension. Slot’s tactical flexibility could see the duo deployed together more often as Liverpool look to balance power with finesse in attack.

Lessons Learned as Liverpool Push Forward

For Liverpool supporters, the incident was a frustrating setback but also a reminder of the passion that drives Ekitike. His apology and determination to move forward have gone some way to restoring confidence in his discipline. As the Reds continue their domestic and European campaigns, the Frenchman’s ability to keep his composure will be as crucial as his eye for goal.

Ekitike’s vow that such an incident “won’t happen again” will be tested on the pitch, starting with his return to action this week. If he channels his energy constructively, Liverpool could have a forward line capable of unsettling any defence.