Robertson Slams ‘Silly’ Ekitike After Red Card Drama in League Cup Win
Hugo Ekitike’s bright Liverpool start took a reckless turn as the £79m striker saw red in bizarre fashion during the Reds’ 2–1 League Cup victory over Southampton.
The Frenchman had looked like the hero when he buried Federico Chiesa’s late cross, sending Anfield into chaos. But in the heat of celebration, Ekitike ripped off his shirt — forgetting he’d already been booked for dissent earlier. Referee Thomas Bramall wasted no time: second yellow, then red.
Liverpool vice-captain Andrew Robertson didn’t mince his words afterward. “I’d be very surprised if he does it again,” the Scot said. “Scoring is always emotional, but he’s obviously just forgotten he’s been booked. He has to learn quickly.”
The reactions told the story. Jeremie Frimpong threw his arms up in disbelief. Arne Slot exhaled heavily on the touchline, refusing to acknowledge Ekitike as he trudged off.
The sending-off means Ekitike, who already has five goals and an assist in just eight games, will miss Saturday’s Premier League clash at Crystal Palace. Slot, who has been carefully managing Alexander Isak’s minutes, may now have no choice but to turn to the Swede from the start.
It was a night of mixed emotions at Anfield: progression secured, another goal for the new No. 9, but also a costly lesson in discipline that Liverpool can ill afford.
