Newcastle Launch Investigation After Shocking Footage Emerges From Liverpool Game

Newcastle United have launched an investigation after footage went viral showing their players appear to abandon a mascot on the pitch ahead of their 4-1 loss to Liverpool.

Eddie Howe's men thought they were on for a shock away win after they took the lead at Anfield through a fine effort from Anthony Gordon.

The first half strike was the former Everton man's first Premier League goal from open play in over a year, and it didn't but the Magpies ahead for long.

Hugo Ekitike scored twice in two minutes to turn the game around before the break, before Florian Wirtz and Ibrahima Konate topped off a fine display from Arne Slot's men.

Despite Newcastle's woes on the pitch, it was what happened prior to kick off that caused outrage, after footage of a young mascot emerged online.

The footage shows the mascot stood with Newcastle captain Kieran Trippier, before the squad run off to remove their jackets leaving the girl stranded on the Anfield turf.

The girl wandered towards the middle of the pitch before being directed back over to the away players by a member of Liverpool staff, however, the footage cuts with the girl still alone in the centre circle.

Newcastle fans have been left outraged by the footage, and took to social media to call for action to be taken.

One fan wrote: "Really, really bad from the lads & staff this. Poor little lass man."

A supporters group added: "This is so disappointing to see. We will encourage the club to reach out to the young lass and her family to put it right."

Another fan posted: "This is poor from everyone. A duty of care from all involved has been completely missed."

For once, it appears fan complaints have been listened to with The Telegraph's Luke Edwards confirming the club are looking into the incident.

He wrote on X: "I have been in touch with people at Newcastle this evening after seeing this, and they are looking to make things right with the mascot. Felt so sorry for the little girl,"

This has been backed up by the Newcastle supporters group who confirmed this, posting on X: "We spoke to the club about this yesterday - they are aware and it is being addressed and action being taken."