Overview

• Ekitike was sent off for a second yellow after taking off his shirt to celebrate a late winner against Southampton in the EFL Cup.
• The striker will serve a one-match ban and is unavailable for Saturday’s Premier League visit to Crystal Palace.
• Slot called the cautions “needless” and “stupid,” said Ekitike apologised, and denied reports the club had docked his wages.
• Isak is expected to start in Ekitike’s absence, with Slot indicating his minutes will be managed as he builds fitness.
• Pundits such as Gary Lineker, Micah Richards, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Wayne Rooney criticised the incident, while Federico Chiesa’s two assists were largely overlooked.