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Nov 05, 2023

Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk at risk of having suspension extended after Newcastle red

Virgil van Dijk runs the risk of having his three-match ban extended by a further game after shouting at referee John Brooks for showing him a red card in Sunday's Premier League fixture against

Virgil van Dijk runs the risk of having his three-match ban extended by a further game after shouting at referee John Brooks for showing him a red card in Sunday's Premier League fixture against Newcastle. The Football Association (FA) are clamping down on aggressive behaviour towards officials and have issued a new set of rules as they seek to 'reset' how those who play and watch the game conduct themselves.

A new 'Participant Charter' empowers match officials to take tougher action against unacceptable behaviour, while the FA is expected to back up decisions with further disciplinary penalties including bans and fines. After bringing down Alexander Isak to deny a clear goalscoring opportunity at St James' Park this afternoon, Van Dijk was sent off but took a very long time to leave the pitch as he protested the decision.

The Dutchman bellowed at Brooks before continuing to shout at the fourth official as he walked off the field of play. Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp then appeared to intervene by gently pushing his skipper down the tunnel in order to prevent him from getting into further trouble.

However, the damage may already be done if the FA deem that his behaviour is worthy of an extended ban. As a result, Van Dijk could miss Liverpool's away fixture against Tottenham on September 30 as well as the Reds' next three games against Aston Villa, Wolves and West Ham.

Explaining the FA's decision to bring in harsher sanctions, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, said: "Football has the power to unite and inspire all those that play and watch the game. However, sometimes, this can be negatively impacted by a small minority of players, coaches and fans.

"Our collective approach is to reset this behaviour on the pitch and from the sidelines, whilst giving our referees the respect and protection that they deserve.

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"We are also determined to address the rise in unacceptable behaviour from the stands. Incidents such as dangerous conduct, discrimination, and chanting about football-related tragedies have no place in our game - and can lead to football bans and potential criminal action.

"Passion, emotion and excitement are fundamental to football, however, this must be shown in the right way. Everyone can play their part so that together we can create a safe and enjoyable environment for all."

Luckily for Van Dijk, two late goals from Darwin Nunez secured Liverpool a 2-1 victory in a remarkable 10-man comeback that will surely go down as one of the most dramatic games of football this season. However, the club's lack of depth at centre-back may come back to haunt them with their star defender set for an extended period on the sidelines while Ibnrahima Konate is also out injured.