Newcastle could appeal Anthony Gordon’s red card, which as it stands, will see him miss the Carabao Cup final. The Magpies’ winger was given his marching orders just before extra-time in Sunday’s dismal FA Cup match against Brighton. Eddie Howe’s side missed out on another shot at silverware when the Seagulls clinched a 2-1 victory at St James’ Park.
Gordon received his marching orders in the 83rd minute for pushing Jan Paul van Hecke. Brighton were also reduced to 10 men before Danny Welbeck scored the decisive goal in extra-time. Gordon’s red means he is set to be sidelined for three games, including the highly-anticipated cup final at Wembley against Liverpool on March 16.
However, Howe insists that the England winger’s shove lacked any harmful intent and has indicated that the club will appeal the decision if they see just cause.
Howe remarked: “Of course. If we analyse the incident and feel there’s grounds for that [an appeal], we will do without hesitation. I’d need to see it, I can’t sit here and give an honest opinion to that until I’ve done the work that you’ve done and looked at it. But knowing the player, I know there’s no malice intended there.”
The potential absence of Gordon is a significant concern for Newcastle as they prepare to face a heavily fancied Liverpool. The winger has already made his mark against the Reds earlier this season, netting a goal in a thrilling 3-3 draw at St James’ Park, and his speed remains one of Newcastle‘s key assets in attack.
Newcastle are striving to bring an end to a prolonged trophy drought that has lasted over 50 years. They’ve recently had a glimpse of glory, reaching the Carabao Cup final two years back, only to be edged out by Manchester United.
Adding to Newcastle‘s concerns, star striker Alexander Isak, who notched the opening goal against Brighton, had to leave the pitch in the 86th minute, with Callum Wilson stepping in as his substitute. Isak’s absence was already felt in their 2-0 defeat at Liverpool, and losing him again could severely undermine their prospects of Wembley glory.
Post-match, Howe sought to quell any injury fears: “Alex just felt a bit of general tightness. I don’t think it was an injury, it was just general tightness, but we felt as though he had to come off.”
This article originally appeared on the Mirror
