Liverpool’s captain, Virgil van Dijk, is at risk of being sidelined for more than one game as he faces the consequences of his altercation with referee John Brooks during the recent clash against Newcastle United.
- Virgil Van Dijk was sent off during Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Newcastle.
- Van Dijk was furious at the referee’s call as he felt it was too harsh.
- New reports suggest that Van Dijk insulted the referee and could face a longer suspension.
Van Dijk’s fiery confrontation with Brooks followed his red card for a foul on Alexander Isak, sparking heated scenes at St James’ Park.
The Dutchman was visibly frustrated, remonstrating with the referee and Newcastle players after his sending off. Despite Liverpool’s surprise 2-1 victory, the focus shifts to the potential repercussions of Van Dijk’s behavior. Besides an automatic one-game ban, the Football Association (FA) may impose further sanctions for his conduct, in line with their commitment to curbing referee abuse.
The FA is treating this case as “non standard,” indicating no predetermined punishment. A Regulatory Commission will evaluate the matter, deciding whether additional matches will be added to Van Dijk’s suspension.
The FA statement reads, “Virgil van Dijk has been charged with a breach of FA rule E3.1 following Liverpool’s Premier League game against Newcastle United on Sunday 27 August.” The defender is alleged to have acted improperly and used abusive language towards a match official. Van Dijk has until September 1 to respond. While it’s unclear whether he will contest the charge, he is already banned for the upcoming Aston Villa match
Former referees’ chief Keith Hackett expressed that stronger sanctions are warranted. He noted Van Dijk’s reluctance to leave the field, captured by TV cameras shouting his frustration. Hackett suggests that Van Dijk’s actions merit more severe consequences.
READ ALSO: Manchester United hit with injury crisis as Varane will be sidelined for ‘a few weeks’
