Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon has issued an apology following his red card in Monday night’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Liverpool at St James’ Park.
The 24-year-old was sent off in the first half after a high challenge on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, leaving the Magpies to play the remainder of the game with 10 men.
Referee Simon Hooper initially produced a yellow card for the offence, but the decision was upgraded to red after a VAR review, with replays showing Gordon’s studs had left marks on Van Dijk’s calf.
Despite fighting back from two goals down with a spirited display, Eddie Howe’s side were denied a point when Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha struck a stoppage-time winner in the 110th minute.
Anthony Gordon’s full statement after Monday night dismissal
In a message shared on Instagram, Gordon expressed regret to his teammates, the Newcastle supporters and Van Dijk himself, insisting there was no malice in the challenge.
“I want to sincerely apologise to my teammates and the fans,” Gordon wrote. “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 am so proud of the time I spent on the pitch and how we played tonight. The atmosphere from you all is what makes St James’ Park so special.
"I love everything we stand for as a club and no more than right now. I will be back and better, the same as every other setback I have ever faced. See you soon."
Newcastle left short in attack amidst Gordon suspension and Isak saga
Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak pictured on January 7, 2025
The red card means Gordon will now serve a three-match suspension, ruling him out of upcoming Premier League fixtures against Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bournemouth, and his absence is coming at a difficult time for Howe, who is already facing uncertainty over his attacking options.
Alexander Isak has been strongly linked with a move away from Tyneside before the end of the transfer window, with the Swedish striker issuing a public statement about his intention to leave and insisting that he will not play for the club again this season.
Should he depart, Newcastle would be left short in forward areas, with the club failing in their bid to bring in attackers so far, adding to the pressure on the current options.
With tough fixtures ahead and expectations high, Newcastle’s attacking depth will be tested in the coming weeks, and the outcome of the Isak situation could prove decisive for the club’s ambitions this season.
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