Arne Slot explains how Liverpool ‘disciplined’ Hugo Ekitike and confirms Federico Chiesa decision…

Arne Slot discusses how Liverpool managed to ‘discipline’ Hugo Ekitike and provides an update on Federico Chiesa’s situation.

During his Friday press conference, Arne Slot addressed Hugo Ekitike, Federico Chiesa, and Rio Ngumoha ahead of the upcoming match against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Slot confirmed that Hugo Ekitike was not penalized for his error against Southampton, as the Liverpool manager sought to clarify the matter regarding the striker’s red card in the Carabao Cup.

The French player received a dismissal from referee Thomas Bramall for taking off his shirt in celebration after scoring a late winner, despite already being on a yellow card, during the 2-1 victory over the Saints on Tuesday night.

Immediately following the match at Anfield, Slot described the incident as “needless and stupid,” but he stated that the 23-year-old would not face any punishment for his actions as the Premier League leaders prepare to compete against Crystal Palace without him on Saturday afternoon.

“Disciplined means I had a conversation with him, but if ‘disciplined’ implies a fine, we didn’t impose that,” Slot clarified.

“What he did wasn’t wise; he acknowledged that immediately and apologized to his teammates.

“Players of all ages can make mistakes, and at this club, you are permitted to err without facing immediate fines.

“He is an outstanding individual; if you ask all the staff members who the warmest people are, he would rank among the top three.

“His actions weren’t clever, but they didn’t cost us on Tuesday; they might tomorrow, but the silver lining is that Federico Chiesa can make his return.”

Chiesa, who delivered an impressive performance with two assists against the Championship team this week, will rejoin the Premier League squad in Ekitike’s absence, and the Italian forward will also be included in the Champions League roster following the confirmation of a long-term knee injury to teenage defender Giovanni Leoni.

Slot further remarked: “We have considered [including Chiesa in the Champions League squad]. I cannot provide specific details on the status of that process.

This is not something I personally handle. If I have been correctly informed, when a player suffers an injury lasting more than two months, you are permitted to replace him.

Slot also commented on Rio Ngumoha’s situation following the 17-year-old’s signing of his first professional contract on Thursday, just weeks after he made history as the youngest goalscorer for the club at 16 years and 361 days.

“The positive aspect is that if you are a young player at Liverpool, you are surrounded by teammates who are even better than you,” Slot remarked.

“This contributes to staying humble due to his character.

“However, when you are playing alongside wingers like Cody Gakpo, Mo Salah, and Federico Chiesa, he recognizes that there is still room for improvement.

“To reach their level, it requires consistent excellence. This is what distinguishes the elite players.