Andy Robertson not impressed with ‘silly’ Hugo Ekitike despite Liverpool winner
Hugo Ektike was sent off against Southampton in the Carabao Cup third round and will now serve a one-game suspension for his silliness.
Jeremie Frimpong was visibly confused by Hugo Ekitike after the French striker removed his shirt after scoring the winner before he was sent off for a second yellow card.
With Ekitike now set to miss Liverpool’s next game against Crystal Palace, concern among fans over the referee named for the fixture may be deepened.
Liverpool supporters were stunned by Giovanni Leoni’s debut, although it was sadly cut short by injury after the Italian defender suffered a horrible blow just after the 80th minute.
Andy Robertson reacts to Hugo Ekitike red card
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Andy Robertson discussed the moment of madness from Hugo Ekitike but recognised that it was simply a mistake and unlikely to happen again.
The Liverpool vice-captain said: “I’ll be very surprised if he does it again.
“Scoring a goal is always emotional and he’s obviously just forgot. His first one is stupidity. Two silly bookings and we miss him for Saturday.
“It’s silly from his part. He will learn from it and I’m sure he won’t do it again.”
Ekitike is already a key Liverpool player despite red card
Despite the stupid mistake of being sent off for two avoidable red cards, Ekitike has succeeded in making himself a key player at Anfield just two months after joining the club.
With five goals in eight games, the 23-year-old has announced himself to English football fans in style. Ekitike will be missed for the one-game suspension he serves, but Arne Slot will simply have to start £125million new signing Alexander Isak, so it should be fine.
Yet, the start Ekitike has made to life at Liverpool must still be commended.
| Minutes played | 473 |
| Expected goals | 1.76 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Successful dribbles (%) | 71.4% |
| Average Sofascore rating | 7.26 |
Ekitike will suffer more than anyone as a result of this red card, as it gives Isak the chance to cement his place in the side ahead of the Frenchman.
Isak was always going to be Liverpool’s starting striker but, now, Slot will have no arguments against dropping Ekitike for Isak when the forward is fit and ready to play full games regularly.