Liverpool Striker Ekitike Apologizes After Red Card for Celebration in EFL Cup Win

Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool's French striker, was sent off during their League Cup win against Southampton after receiving a second yellow card for removing his shirt while celebrating his late winning goal. This red card means he will miss Liverpool's upcoming Premier League match against Crystal Palace. Ekitike apologized on social media, expressing regret that his emotions got the better of him and apologizing to the Liverpool fans and team. Liverpool manager Arne Slot criticized the celebration as "needless" and "stupid," emphasizing that even without a prior booking, such a celebration was unwise and that Ekitike should have acknowledged his teammate Federico Chiesa's assist instead. Ekitike had already been booked earlier in the match for dissent, and the manager highlighted the importance of controlling emotions in high-level competition. Despite the setback, Ekitike's goal secured Liverpool's progression to the Carabao Cup fourth round, and he has scored five goals in eight games since joining the club.