Dominik Szoboszlai apologises for ‘disrespectful’ Liverpool moment as Arne Slot speaks out

Dominik Szoboszlai apologised for the error that led to Barnsley’s goal in Liverpool’s 4-1 FA Cup victory at Anfield, which the away side didn’t appreciate and considered it disrespectful

Dominik Szoboszlai has expressed regret for his peculiar blunder during Liverpool’s FA Cup triumph over Barnsley. Despite the Reds’ 4-1 victory at Anfield, Szoboszlai’s odd decision to attempt a flick just three yards from goal under pressure resulted in an easy tap-in for Barnsley’s Adam Phillips.

Barnsley’s head coach Conor Hourihane didn’t mince words in his post-match press conference, accusing Szoboszlai of being ‘disrespectful’ to his team. Meanwhile, Arne Slot, clearly unimpressed, confirmed he would be having a discussion with his midfielder.

However, Szoboszlai took responsibility for his error, stating: “[I’m also] sorry for the team again [for his error leading to Barnsley’s goal]. I made it hard for us with an easy mistake, I would say. But football moves on and we take the next round.”

Before his gaffe, the Hungarian international had scored a stunning 35-yard goal to kick off the scoring, followed by Jeremie Frimpong doubling the lead. Substitutes Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike added to the tally in the second half’s final moments, setting up a fourth-round clash with Brighton and Hove Albion for the Reds.

“We wanted to show that we take it [the FA Cup] seriously,” Szoboszlai said. “I think we always take it seriously [usually], but we showed again today that we need the whole squad.

“The new guys came in who didn’t play maybe as much as the others, but again, they also showed quality. We need everyone.

“I think we need a little bit more time together to get to know each other better. From the summer on we developed a lot and all the new guys settled in very well, I think – but you need to ask them first of all.

“[I’m] happy for Flo and Hugo [tonight] and all of the guys. Of course [it was nice to win].

“It was also for the fans also, and now we move on.”

Speaking afterwards, Tykes manager Hourihane remarked: “I’m a little bit disappointed with their player if I’m honest. I thought it was a bit disrespectful.

“I don’t think he does that against Chelsea, or Arsenal in a Champions League game. Unbelievable little feeling and buzz for Adam obviously, but a little bit of lack of respect from their player to be honest.”

Meanwhile, Reds manager Slot said: “I don’t think you should do that in a Premier League game, League Cup game, friendly game or a training session.

“It’s a weird choice and I also have my opinion about it, but I prefer to keep that to myself and speak about it with Dom.”