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Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike has offered his backing to Dominik Szoboszlai following Hungary's heartbreaking failure to reach the World Cup qualification play-offs.
The 25-year-old was unable to drive his country toward a spot at the tournament after they succumbed to a devastating loss against the Republic of Ireland.
Szoboszlai set up the first goal for Daniel Lukacs before Liverpool and international colleague Milos Kerkez teed up Barnabas Varga ahead of half-time to re-establish their 2-1 advantage. However, Hungary experienced a catastrophic 16-minute spell as Troy Parrott netted twice, wrapping up his treble deep into the sixth minute of added time.
Szoboszlai was clearly distraught following the late agony, which enabled Ireland to vault above Hungary into second position in the group and claim a play-off berth.
On Monday, the midfielder issued an apology to the nation after being unable to steer his country to its first World Cup appearance since 1986. On Instagram, he wrote: "It hurts.
"It hurts because we really wanted it! Not only for us but for you too. For you, who are always by our side and would accompany us to the end of the world.
"As Team Captain, I'm sorry I didn't make it this time... Very proud of all players, staff and coaches. I love being Hungarian, even when life tests me.
"Someday every detail will fall into place, that's why we work again and again. You are, what is mine. We owe you and us a World Cup! The work has begun again. I love you Hungary!"
Ekitike was among the Liverpool players showing their support, with Ibrahima Konate, Curtis Jones, Ryan Gravenberch and Andy Robertson liking the post.
The France international, who scored his first senior goal for Les Bleus to help Didier Deschamps' side secure World Cup qualification with their 4-0 victory over Ukraine, commented: "Always proud brother."
Szoboszlai is anticipated to feature in the Liverpool squad that hosts Nottingham Forest at Anfield on Nov. 22.
Sean Dyche's team will be hoping to repeat their achievements from last season following the international break, when Callum Hudson-Odoi's strike helped Forest defeat the Reds on Merseyside.
Arne Slot will aim to reassure the Hungary captain and hope the setback doesn't affect his confidence after Szoboszlai has been amongst the most reliable performers for the Reds during a disappointing title defense.
The Dutchman commended the player earlier this month, saying: "I think he's been outstanding throughout the whole season, but these two games brought even more out of the team and out of him.
"For me, for obvious reasons; but it's maybe smarter not to say those reasons because I don't want to say the same things over and over again, and you probably know what I mean without me saying it?
"I think Dom has a lot, a lot, a lot of qualities but one of them is also his work without the ball.
"And his work without the ball was... I like his work without the ball every single game and in the last two games that was probably even above his own standards."
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