FA Contemplates Further Action as Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk Sees Red Against Newcastle
The Dutch stalwart found himself on the receiving end of a straight red card in the 28th minute after a challenge on Alexander Isak that left many spectators divided. The challenge, deemed to have denied a clear goal-scoring opportunity for Newcastle’s Swedish striker, threw Liverpool into turmoil at St James’ Park. The eventful match had earlier seen Anthony Gordon capitalize on a mistake by Trent Alexander-Arnold, handing Newcastle an early lead. Van Dijk’s early departure tilted the favor towards the home side, making them strong contenders for victory. However, in a surprising twist of fate, substitute Darwin Nunez managed to turn the tables with two late goals, securing a thrilling win for Jurgen Klopp’s exultant squad.
Klopp, never one to mince words, shared his perspective on Van Dijk’s red card, stating, “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. It’s just, would I give this in a training game? Definitely not. There are reasons why I am not a ref and they are.”
As things stand, Van Dijk is set to miss only Liverpool’s home fixture against Aston Villa on September 3. His red card was categorized as non-violent, resulting in a one-match suspension. Notably, a three-match ban is typically imposed on players dismissed for violent conduct, while players sent off for dissent receive a two-match suspension in the Premier League.
However, a recent report from the Daily Mail suggests that Van Dijk’s troubles might not end there. The defender allegedly berated referee John Brooks’ decision to send him off, reportedly branding it a “f***ing joke.” Such comments could potentially be categorized as improper conduct towards match officials, paving the way for further trouble with the FA.
Incensed by Brooks’ decision, Van Dijk made his disagreement abundantly clear, refusing to leave the pitch quietly. He also appeared to exchange heated words with fourth official Craig Pawson before heading towards the away dressing room.
Former referee Mike Dean, who made headlines for eyebrow-raising comments involving a Premier League game he worked as the VAR on last season, weighed in on the situation. Dean stated, “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.”
Van Dijk assumed the role of Liverpool’s new permanent captain this summer following Jordan Henderson’s departure to Saudi Arabia. Klopp is undoubtedly keen to have the talismanic center-back available for Liverpool’s first fixture after the international break, scheduled against Wolves on September 16. Nevertheless, there’s now a looming possibility that the 32-year-old’s punishment may be exacerbated due to his initial refusal to accept Sunday’s decision.
