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Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon has publicly issued an apology following his highly controversial red card in Monday’s Premier League clash with Liverpool at St. James’ Park.
The dismissal came in the closing moments of the first half after a rash tackle on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, who recently made his feelings clear on the Alexander Isak transfer. The tackle saw Gordon’s studs leave visible marks on the defender’s calf.
Taking to Instagram shortly after the match, Gordon, who issued a wild warning to Liverpool pregame, began: “I want to sincerely apologise to my teammates and the fans. My intentions were pure. I was just trying to create energy in the game and I mistimed the tackle.”
He extended his apology specifically to Van Dijk, noting: “I also want to apologise to Virgil. I would never intend to tackle somebody like this on purpose. We spoke after and he knows that.”
References on the pitch confirmed the severity of the challenge. Van Dijk was seen clutching his calf, and cameras later captured two clear stud marks tracing down his leg. After initially showing a yellow card, referee Simon Hooper upgraded the decision to red for serious foul play upon VAR review.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe lamented the decision but defended his player’s intent. He stated that while the challenge was mistimed and came in “full-bloodedly,” there was “no intent or malice.” He called the red card “unfortunate” and expressed sympathy for Gordon.
In response to the red card, Gordon continued his message with optimism: “More importantly, I’m so proud of the time I spent on the pitch and how we played tonight. The atmosphere from you all is what makes SJP so special.”
“I love everything we stand for as a club and no more than right now. I’ll be back and better, the same as every other setback I’ve ever faced. See you soon.”
His apology highlights the emotional volatility of the contest. The fiery tackle further exacerbated Newcastle’s striker crisis, already reeling from the absence of Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.
Down to ten men, Newcastle struck back with goals from Bruno Guimarães and William Osula to level the score, only to concede a stoppage-time winner from Liverpool debutant Rio Ngumoha.
Analysts, including former referee Mark Halsey, supported the red card, asserting the challenge met the criteria for serious foul play due to the force and point of contact. Legends like Alan Shearer were less sympathetic, describing the tackle as “stupid.”
Gordon is now set to miss up to three matches due to suspension, compounding Newcastle’s attacking woes. With injuries already decimating the roster, manager Howe must find solutions to a growing crisis.
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