Virgil van Dijk could potentially be subject to additional consequences following his contentious red card in the match against Newcastle on Sunday.
The Liverpool captain was shown a red card merely 28 minutes into the game at St James’ Park for a challenge in which he kicked through Alexander Isak while attempting to reach the ball.
This verdict was reached shortly after former Liverpool prospect Anthony Gordon scored for Newcastle, taking advantage of a blunder by Trent Alexander-Arnold, who narrowly escaped being given a red card after just five minutes into the match.
While Alexander Isak was advancing forward, the referee, John Brooks, concluded that Van Dijk’s challenge denied a clear opportunity for a goal. As a result, Brooks issued a straight red card to Van Dijk.
Despite the availability of VAR, the decision to issue a red card wasn’t overturned, leading to Van Dijk receiving his first red card while playing for Liverpool.
Since the expulsion wasn’t due to violent behavior, the regulations dictate that the Dutch player would face a one-game suspension – the upcoming match against Aston Villa at Anfield.
Van Dijk’s behavior subsequent to the red card could potentially lead to an extended suspension. Even without lip-reading, it was evident that he directed offensive language at the referee, reportedly referring to the decision as a “f***ing joke.” This outburst occurred as he reacted emotionally and resisted leaving the field without causing a scene.
This type of behavior could be categorized as “improper conduct.” Additionally, Van Dijk was involved in an intense exchange with fourth official Craig Pawson as he walked towards the tunnel, further complicating the situation.
Mike Dean, a former referee who has been in the spotlight due to comments he made on a podcast recently, provided insight into this scenario.
He toldthe Daily Mail:“Van Dijk disagreed as he unleashed a verbal volley on fourth official Craig Pawson, which was out of line.
“Depending on what is written in the referee’s report, Van Dijk may find himself in further trouble with the football authorities.”
Opinions on the red card were split, though former defender Jamie Carragher was adamant that there was no way of knowing if it was a “goalscoring opportunity”.
Predictably, manager Jurgen Klopp disagreed with his decision, telling a press conference: “I don’t think it is a red card. It’s pretty much no contact, very little, and it’s on the way to the ball, but what can I say? The decision is like this, I cannot change it and I don’t want it.”
Liverpool were galvanised by the sending off though and came from behind to claim a huge win courtesy of a sensational late brace from substitute Darwin Nunez.
The Reds have taken seven points from their first three games.