Roy Keane has launched a scathing attack on Anthony Gordon, accusing the Newcastle winger of 'disrespectful' behaviour following his red card in the 3-2 defeat to Liverpool. The Manchester United legend criticised Gordon's conduct on the pitch, particularly his tendency to dish out heavy challenges while feigning injury when tackled himself.
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Keane said: 'Newcastle kicking Liverpool all over the place, getting stuck in as you do, there's nothing wrong with that. I like that physical side of the game, and then anyone touches any of the Newcastle players, they were like rolling around, and Gordon's a prime example. You look at Gordon and he falls over! He's running around kicking everybody and then apologising afterwards, 'I didn't mean it.' Well, what were you doing?'
Gordon was initially shown a yellow card for his reckless challenge on Virgil van Dijk, but the decision was upgraded to a straight red after a VAR review. Keane questioned the point of apologising after such a tackle, adding: 'Of course, it was a bad one. What's the point of apologising afterwards? Saying 'Oh I didn't mean to do it,' it's a bad one.'
The 24-year-old later issued a statement on social media apologising to Van Dijk and Newcastle fans, insisting his intentions were pure and that he had spoken to the Liverpool defender after the match. However, Keane's criticism highlights growing frustration with Gordon's conduct.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe now faces mounting problems, with Gordon suspended for up to three matches, injuries to Joelinton and Sandro Tonali, and ongoing transfer speculation surrounding Alexander Isak. The Magpies, who have just one point this season, travel to Leeds United on Saturday evening.
