Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon was apologetic after his red card against Liverpool
Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool reacts after being fouled by Anthony Gordon
Anthony Gordon was sent off for a dangerous challenge on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk
(Image: George Wood/Getty Images)
Anthony Gordon has issued an apology after his red card against Liverpool landed him with a three-match ban and Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe with a fresh headache.
The England international's actions were branded as "stupid" by club legend Alan Shearer who agreed with Simon Hooper's assessment of the red card.
It now leaves Newcastle without the services of Gordon until late September starting with the weekend trip to Leeds at Elland Road.
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Gordon took to Instagram after the game and said: "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. 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.
"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."
Despite Shearer's strong stance on the dismissal, head coach Eddie Howe offered more sympathy to his forward.
And in his post-game Press conference he said: "I've seen it once and very rushed – it was as the game had restarted, so naturally I wanted to see it and then wanted to move on very quickly.
"There was no intent from Ant. He's gone in, of course, probably too quickly, I think he's tried to pull out and not commit any damage to Virgil as he's gone in to slide.
"It's an unfortunate one, I think he's slightly unlucky with it. Everyone has told me it's a clear red; my first opinion was slightly different, but maybe I've got the wrong angle, so I've got sympathy for him."
Gordon's suspension will mean that Newcastle face a further striker crisis. The England man had been filling in for the missing Alexander Isak, and his absence will strengthen United's resolve to sign a striker this week.
William Osula may be called upon to lead the line in the meantime. The Dane scored from the bench against Liverpool.