‘My intentions were pure’ – Anthony Gordon speaks out after reckless red card against Liverpool

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Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon publicly apologised following his red card in the Premier League match against Liverpool, which ended in a dramatic 3-2 defeat for Newcastle. The 24-year-old England international was sent off in first-half stoppage time for a studs-up tackle on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. The tackle left visible stud marks on Van Dijk's calf, prompting referee Simon Hooper to upgrade Gordon’s initial yellow card to a red after a VAR review.

In a statement, Gordon expressed sincere regret to his teammates, fans, and Van Dijk himself, emphasising that his intentions were pure and that the mistimed tackle was not deliberate. He wrote, "I would never intend to tackle somebody like this on purpose. We spoke after and he knows that." Gordon also praised Newcastle’s performance despite being a man down, highlighting the team's resilience and the passionate support at St James' Park.

Gordon’s dismissal left Newcastle reduced to ten men, but the team fought back from a two-goal deficit to equalise before Liverpool’s 16-year-old winger Rio Ngumoha scored a 100th-minute winner. The red card means Gordon will miss the next three matches, presenting a challenge for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, who is already managing squad issues such as Alexander Isak’s absence amid transfer speculation.

Gordon closed his apology by affirming his commitment to the club and determination to return stronger from this setback. Newcastle's next fixture is an away game at Leeds United.

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