Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon walks after being shown a red card
Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon was sent off during the first half of Monday's clash against Liverpool
Premier League referee Simon Hooper has explained why he opted to send off Anthony Gordon during 's .
was late and out of control as he charged down Virgil van Dijk in the first half of Monday night's clash at St James' Park. Referee Hooper initially awarded a yellow card for the challenge but, after being advised to review the challenge, changed his mind and sent the former man off.
And explaining his decision, Hooper said: “After review, the Newcastle United No.10 committed a serious foul play challenge. The challenge was with speed and made clear contact on the Liverpool No.4's calf. My final decision is red card, Newcastle United No.10.”
Having his say on the challenge by Gordon, former Chelsea and Celtic striker Chris Sutton said during coverage: "Does he catch him high? It's a wild challenge.
"Every time you see it, it gets worse. I'll be surprised if he stays on. It was an unnecessary challenge."
Gordon will miss Newcastle's next three matches after receiving a straight red card for serious foul play. It means he will miss the Magpies' trip to Leeds on Saturday, followed by the home game against Wolves on September 13.
The 24-year-old will be available in Europe for their Champions League opener in the week commencing September 15.
He will then miss their Premier League away match at Bournemouth on September 20, before returning domestically for Newcastle's Carabao Cup third round tie in the week commencing September 22.
"At the time it happened, I said it was a red," former Arsenal forward Thierry Henry said on Sky Sports. "Why put yourself in this situation?
"He [Anthony Gordon] gets carried away with what's been happening but you can't argue."
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