'Big talking point': Dermot Gallagher says whether Newcastle can successfully overturn Anthony Gordon's red card

Anthony Gordon’s red card against Brighton on Sunday was a moment of frustration that could have major consequences for Newcastle United’s season.

The 24-year-old, who was set to play a key role at Wembley after missing the 2023 final, will now miss the Carabao Cup final along with crucial Premier League fixtures against West Ham United and Brentford. His absence is a significant blow to Eddie Howe’s plans as Newcastle chase silverware and a strong league finish.

The incident occurred late in the FA Cup clash when Gordon lashed out at Jan Paul van Hecke after the referee had already stopped play for offside. Although his Newcastle teammates quickly stepped in to diffuse the situation, the decision had already been made.

Anthony Taylor wasted no time in producing a straight red card, and a VAR review upheld the call, leaving Gordon with no reprieve.

Eddie Howe, visibly frustrated, confirmed that Newcastle would appeal the decision, calling it a harsh punishment. However, he admitted that he did not acknowledge Gordon as he left the pitch, explaining that he was too focused on the game at that moment.

Fans have expressed outrage over the decision, but former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has offered a less optimistic view on Newcastle’s chances of overturning the suspension.

Gallagher, speaking on Sky Sports News, assessed the situation and cast doubt on any potential appeal. He described Gordon’s actions as reckless, highlighting that the whistle had already blown and there was no reason for the altercation.

Referee Anthony Taylor gives a red card to Newcastle United’s English midfielder #10 Anthony Gordon during the English FA Cup fifth round football match between Newcastle United and Brighton and Hove Albion at St. James’ Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, north east England on March 2, 2025. (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images)

He pointed out that once a player places both hands on an opponent’s face in an aggressive manner, a red card becomes inevitable. The upcoming Carabao Cup final has amplified the controversy surrounding the decision, but Gallagher remains convinced that an appeal would be futile.

He explained that for Newcastle to overturn the suspension, they must prove that Taylor made a clear and obvious mistake. Given the available footage, he argued that no one could confidently claim the referee had erred in his decision.

While Newcastle might explore options to reduce the three-match ban, Gallagher believes there is little chance of success. The likelihood of seeing Gordon take the field at Wembley now seems virtually nonexistent, forcing Howe to rethink his strategy for the final.

With Gordon unavailable, Howe must consider alternative options for Newcastle’s attack. Joelinton and Harvey Barnes appear to be the frontrunners to fill the void on the left wing, but neither offers the same explosive pace and direct threat that Gordon brings.

Adjusting the team’s approach without one of their most dynamic players presents a significant tactical challenge, particularly against a formidable Liverpool side.

This setback has an eerie resemblance to Newcastle’s misfortune in last year’s Carabao Cup final. In 2023, Nick Pope received a red card just a week before the final, ruling him out of the Wembley showdown.

To make matters worse, Martin Dubravka was cup-tied after spending part of the season on loan at Manchester United, leaving Howe with limited options. As a result, Loris Karius, who had not played a competitive match in nearly two years, was thrust into the starting lineup.

Despite a commendable performance, Newcastle fell short, and the trophy slipped from their grasp.

This time around, Newcastle will at least have one of Pope or Dubravka available for selection, though neither has fully cemented their place as Howe’s preferred choice in goal.

The sense of déjà vu is undeniable, particularly given that the same referee, Anthony Taylor, was responsible for Pope’s red card in 2023. Lightning has struck twice for Newcastle in consecutive seasons, with key suspensions disrupting their preparations for a crucial final.

Despite these challenges, Newcastle’s squad remains determined to rise to the occasion. While Gordon’s absence is a major blow, the team must adapt and find a way to compete without him.

The Magpies have shown resilience under Howe’s leadership, and they will need every ounce of that fighting spirit to overcome the latest hurdle.

Liverpool, boasting a wealth of experience in cup finals, will pose a significant threat, but Newcastle cannot afford to dwell on their misfortunes. The focus must shift to executing a game plan that neutralizes Liverpool’s attacking firepower while making the most of their own opportunities. The absence of a key player is never ideal, but great teams find ways to overcome adversity.

As the countdown to Wembley continues, Newcastle fans will hope their team can defy the odds and bring home their first major trophy since 1969.

Gordon’s suspension adds another layer of difficulty to an already challenging task, but it also presents an opportunity for another player to step up and make history. While the controversy surrounding the red card will continue to spark debate, Newcastle’s immediate concern is preparing for a final that could define their season.