Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk could be looking at an extended suspension from the Football Association (FA) after he was sent off and allegedly criticized the referee’s decision during Liverpool’s victory against Newcastle.
Van Dijk, Liverpool’s captain, received a straight red card in the first half of the match for a contentious challenge that denied Alexander Isak a goal-scoring opportunity. Despite this setback, Liverpool managed a comeback win with Darwin Nunez netting two goals off the bench, securing three points for the 10-man team.
While Van Dijk is already set to serve a one-game suspension, the FA is reviewing his behavior after the red card. It is reported that he used abusive language against the referee, John Brooks, labeling the decision as a “f*cking joke,” and initially resisted leaving the pitch. He also appeared to engage in a heated exchange with fourth official Craig Pawson.
The FA may impose additional sanctions based on the referee’s report and their regulations. Players can face further penalties for improper behavior, including confrontational language. Several players in the past have received extended bans for their actions toward officials after receiving a red card.
Liverpool, despite the absence of their captain, remains undefeated this season and holds fourth place in the Premier League standings with seven points from three games. The team will be without Van Dijk in their next match against Aston Villa on September 3rd.
