Virgil van Dijk Facing Additional Ban After Red Card Reaction in Liverpool’s Win Over Newcastle United
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is facing an additional ban for his reaction to being sent off in the Reds’ 2-1 win over Newcastle United on Sunday.
Van Dijk was shown a red card in the first half at St James’ Park for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity after fouling Alexander Isak. The defender reacted angrily to referee John Brooks as he left the pitch, and the FA has now charged Van Dijk for his conduct.
Van Dijk Charged with Breaking FA Rule E3.1
A statement from The FA read: “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. It’s alleged that the defender acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words towards a match official after being sent off in the 29th minute. Virgil van Dijk has until Friday, 1 September to provide a response to this charge.”
Former Referee Believes Van Dijk Deserves Longer Ban
Former Premier League official Mark Halsey believes Van Dijk deserves a longer ban for his conduct. Halsey wrote in his column for The Sun: “Van Dijk’s abusive actions at St James’ Park also have an impact on the wider footballing world. Van Dijk refused to accept the decision and took a total of two minutes 28 seconds to get down the tunnel from the moment he was dismissed. Van Dijk will rightly receive a one-match ban for the straight red card but I believe his suspension should be increased. Of course, this will depend on Brooks’ official report but the abusive and insulting language used by the new Reds leader could be worthy of another RED CARD and result in an additional three-match ban. That would rule out Van Dijk for four matches in total – a fitting punishment for his poor conduct.”
Conclusion
Virgil van Dijk is facing an additional ban for his reaction to being sent off in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Newcastle United on Sunday. The FA has charged Van Dijk with breaking FA Rule E3.1, and former Premier League official Mark Halsey believes the defender deserves a longer ban for his conduct. It remains to be seen what punishment Van Dijk will receive, but it is likely to be a significant one given the seriousness of the incident.