Newcastle United’s attacking issues got even worse on Monday night when Anthony Gordon was sent off against Liverpool.
Gordon was starting as Newcastle United’s striker against the Premier League champions, with Alexander Isak still not involved amid speculation about a move to Anfield.
The England international played well against Aston Villa last week and had a few early chances against Arne Slot’s side on Monday but Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring against the run of play.
Indeed, things took a turn for the worse after Liverpool’s goal. Gordon was booked for a tackle on Virgil van Dijk and, after a VAR review, was given his marching orders.
It’s a nightmare scenario for Eddie Howe, who remains without Isak and who has also lost Callum Wilson this summer.
Anthony Gordon is sent off for Newcastle United against Liverpool.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
How many games Anthony Gordon is set to miss for Newcastle
Gordon was sent off for serious foul play, having caught Van Dijk on the calf with his studs after the Dutchman had played the ball.
As such, the 24-year-old will miss three games for Newcastle. That would be a big enough blow for Howe without the Isak saga.
Leeds vs Newcastle United – Saturday 30 August
Newcastle United vs Wolves – Saturday 13 September
Bournemouth vs Newcastle United – Saturday 20 September
Gordon will play no part in Newcastle’s game against Leeds next week. He will then be banned for the visit of Wolves on September 13 and the trip to Bournemouth the following week.
MORE NEWCASTLE STORIES
Anthony Gordon has cost Newcastle United again
Gordon missed the Carabao Cup final in March due to a silly red card during the FA Cup clash with Brighton just before.
It’s a real shame for both the player and Howe. Gordon needs to have a big season after struggling during the 2024/25 campaign, but this is far from an ideal start.
The Newcastle United manager is now without his only real back-up for Isak. Will Osula and Sean Neave are alternative options, but neither fully convince at this stage.
What had looked like a big night for Gordon ended in disaster on a personal level.