Arne Slot criticised Hugo Ekitike after the striker scored Liverpool’s winner before being sent off in their 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Southampton.
The French forward replaced Alexander Isak at half-time and was booked just eight minutes later for punching the ball away after a free-kick was given.
Ekitike later put Liverpool back in front in the 85th minute, finishing Federico Chiesa’s cross after Shea Charles had earlier equalised for the visitors.
His joy was short-lived, as he picked up a second yellow card for removing his shirt while celebrating in front of the home crowd.
Manager unimpressed with needless booking
Slot described the red card as unnecessary and stressed that Ekitike must learn to control his emotions better.
He told Sky Sports: “Needless? Yes. And it was stupid. The first one was already needless and to a certain extent, stupid, as you have got to control your emotions.”
“I told him that if you score in the Champions League final in the 87th minute after outplaying three players and hitting it in the top corner, I can maybe understand.
“It is always best to control your emotions. If you cannot, do it in a way that does not lead to a yellow card.
Ekitike will now serve a one-match suspension, ruling him out of Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Palace are unbeaten in the league this season and will provide a stern test for Liverpool.
