Alan Shearer issues damning 11-word verdict on Anthony Gordon red card after Virgil van Dijk challenge

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has given his verdict on whether Anthony Gordon deserved to be sent off against Liverpool on Monday evening.

Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, fans and referee Simon Hooper were, no doubt, expecting a fiery affair between Liverpool and Newcastle at St James’ Park.

As expected, challenges had an extra ounce of power connected to them. And of course, the future of Alexander Isak was a huge talking point amid Liverpool’s interest.

The Swede was the subject of a £110m plus add-ons bid from the Reds earlier this month, which was then rejected by the Magpies.

Isak was omitted from Eddie Howe’s squad for the match, with Anthony Gordon leading the line for the home side, flanked by Harvey Barnes and new man Anthony Elanga.

However, Gordon’s evening lasted just over 45 minutes as he was sent off for a challenge on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.

Referee Hooper initially brandished a yellow card, but this was upgraded to a red upon reviewing the pitch-side VAR monitor.

Anthony Gordon sees RED after VAR review, following a rash tackle on Virgil van Dijk 🟥 pic.twitter.com/uJ4xDBrKAA

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 25, 2025

The home fans were incensed by the decision, but what did Shearer make of the call?

Well, he took to X shortly after the decision, and it’s fair to say he’s made up his mind.

Shearer wrote: “What a stupid challenge, man. It’s a red card all day.”

Meanwhile, Thierry Henry, who was working alongside Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports, shared a similar stance.

The mark on Virgil van Dijk's leg after that challenge from Anthony Gordon... pic.twitter.com/cOIjMCPYsA

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 25, 2025

Henry explained: “At the time it happened, I said it was a red. Why put yourself in this situation?

“He [Anthony Gordon] gets carried away with what's been happening, but you can't argue.”

Carragher also weighed in with his take.

“Sometimes you have to play with your brain,” said the former Liverpool centre-back.

“Newcastle crossed the line, and it looks like it could cost them.”

Former Everton, Southampton and Arsenal winger Theo Walcott also issued his verdict on BBC's Monday Night Club.

Walcott said: "It's a striker's tackle. He's gone with the wrong leg. He's still got that fire in the belly and he's not thinking there at all.

"It always looks worse when it's slowed down but Virgil van Dijk wouldn't go down if he wasn't hurt. It's a red card, for me."

Gordon will likely face a three-match ban meaning he will miss the upcoming fixtures against Leeds United, Wolves and Bournemouth. The England international will then be allowed to play against Arsenal on September 28.