Liverpool will be without several key players for the Merseyside derby due to injuries and suspensions. However, one player who seemed at risk of being added to that list now looks set to avoid further punishment.
During Wednesday’s dramatic 3-3 draw against Newcastle, Virgil van Dijk was involved in a contentious incident with Anthony Gordon in the 38th minute.
Following a shot by Gordon that was saved by Caoimhin Kelleher, the Dutch defender appeared to bodycheck the Newcastle winger off the ball. Despite this, referee Andy Madley chose not to penalize Van Dijk.
Van Dijk Likely to Avoid Suspension
According to the *Daily Express*, the Liverpool captain is unlikely to face any sanctions from the FA. The incident was referred to VAR during the match for a potential penalty and red card, but the officials at Stockley Park did not deem it violent conduct.
Since the matter was reviewed during the game, Van Dijk cannot be subjected to retrospective disciplinary action based on the Premier League’s updated guidelines, which only allow such reviews for incidents not seen by match officials or VAR.
A Relief for Liverpool
This decision comes as a relief for Liverpool, who are already dealing with the absence of key players like Alexis Mac Allister (suspension), Diogo Jota, and Ibrahima Konate (injuries). Van Dijk’s availability will be crucial, as he has been one of the standout performers in Liverpool’s strong start to the season.
The incident has sparked debate among pundits and former referees. Dermot Gallagher, speaking on *Sky Sports’ Ref Watch*, believed there wasn’t enough evidence for violent conduct.
However, Roy Keane and Ian Wright, during *The Overlap*, argued that Van Dijk was fortunate not to concede a penalty.
Van Dijk’s actions were uncharacteristically reckless and could have caused significant trouble for him and Liverpool.
Thankfully for the Reds, the situation appears to have been resolved without further consequences, allowing their captain to remain available for the derby on Saturday.
