Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that striker Hugo Ekitike will not face any internal fine despite receiving a second yellow card in the Carabao Cup third-round clash against Southampton.
Ekitike, who joined Liverpool in the summer, played a decisive role in the tie as he scored and celebrated passionately by removing his shirt. Already booked earlier in the match, the celebration earned him a second yellow and subsequent dismissal, leaving Liverpool to finish the game with 10 men.
Speaking after the game, Slot revealed that while discipline usually brings a financial penalty, no such action has been taken against the 22-year-old forward.
“Disciplined means a fine, which he didn’t get,” Slot told reporters. “I spoke to him. He said sorry straight away to his team-mates. Ekitike is young and players of all ages make mistakes, and you are allowed at this club to make a mistake without getting fined.”
The Dutch coach further highlighted Ekitike’s character off the pitch, underlining why the club has chosen to take a lenient stance.
