Liverpool have released an official update following **Hugo Ekitike’s dramatic night at Anfield** in the Carabao Cup win over Southampton.
The French striker came off the bench to score a stunning late winner, but his joy quickly turned sour as he was shown a **second yellow card** for removing his shirt in celebration. That dismissal means Ekitike will now serve a **one-match suspension**.
### Ekitike to Miss Crystal Palace Clash
In a statement on *liverpoolfc.com*, the club confirmed:
> “Hugo Ekitike will be suspended for Liverpool’s Premier League fixture at Crystal Palace on Saturday.”
This ruling leaves head coach **Arne Slot** with a major decision to make in attack for the trip to Selhurst Park.
### Isak the Natural Replacement
All eyes now turn to **Alexander Isak**, Liverpool’s record signing, who netted his **first goal for the club** in the same game against Southampton. Despite concerns about his sharpness, Isak is expected to step into the starting XI against Palace.
Alongside him, **Federico Chiesa** also made a strong impact in the cup tie, assisting both goals. His influence could prove vital, especially with Ekitike unavailable.
### Squad Depth Under the Microscope
This season has already tested Liverpool’s depth. Injuries and rotations have stretched the squad, and Wednesday night added more headaches for Slot.
Debutant **Giovanni Leoni** was stretchered off with a knee problem, and the club are still awaiting the full extent of the 18-year-old’s injury.
With big-money signings like **Florian Wirtz** and **Alexander Isak** joining in the summer, Liverpool set out to build a squad capable of competing on all fronts. But Ekitike’s absence — especially after his explosive start with **five goals since signing from Eintracht Frankfurt** — is an unwelcome disruption.
### What Next for Slot’s Attack?
Liverpool remain unbeaten in the Premier League, and Selhurst Park is always a tricky venue. The test for Slot will be whether he can reshuffle his forward line effectively, and whether Isak can translate his cup form into a consistent Premier League threat.
For now, the spotlight is firmly on Liverpool’s **attacking depth** and how Slot manages the growing pressure of balancing results, injuries, and suspensions.
