Anthony Gordon has apologised to Virgil van Dijk for the challenge which earned him a red card on Monday night, explaining his motives for going in with force.
Gordon was rightly dismissed at the end of the first half at St James’ Park having attempted to press Liverpool’s back line before throwing himself into a tackle on Van Dijk.
While Gordon is an intelligent, conscientious footballer it was clear he became caught up in the atmosphere of the night.
And writing on his Instagram story, the 24-year-old admitted he was “trying to create energy in the game.”
“I want to sincerely apologise to my teammates and the fans. My intentions were pure,” Gordon wrote.
“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 hurt somebody like this on purpose. We spoke after and he knows that.”
The challenge, which missed the ball entirely, saw Gordon collide with Van Dijk’s lower leg, leaving stud marks down his calf and risking serious damage to his ankle.
Fortunately the defender escaped unscathed, but referee Simon Hooper was sent to the pitchside monitor by VAR and ruled it to have been a red card for a reckless challenge.
It means Newcastle will be without Gordon for the next three matches, which only aggravates the situation around Eddie Howe’s lack of attacking options with Alexander Isak attempting to force a move to Liverpool.
Gordon had been filling in as a No. 9 in Isak’s absence, while Newcastle are desperately seeking reinforcements – including a potential replacement for the Swede.
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, ENGLAND - Monday, August 25, 2025: Liverpool's captain Virgil van Dijk was challenged by Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon during the FA Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Liverpool FC at St James' Park. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Moves for Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro, Matheus Cunha, Liam Delap and Benjamin Sesko have all proved unsuccessful, while bids for Yoane Wissa and Jorgen Strand Larsen have fallen short.
The expectation is that clarity will be sought on Isak’s future now the clash between his current club and his chosen destination has been played.
Newcastle‘s owners, including a delegation from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, visited the striker’s home this week for talks over his future and to attempt to convince him to stay.
The Mail‘s Craig Hope reports that those talks included an informal offer of a new contract if Isak committed himself to the club for the season.
Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who is governor of the PIF, was in attendance for Newcastle‘s dramatic 3-2 loss.