Newcastle may appeal Anthony Gordon's red card

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has hinted that his side may appeal after Anthony Gordon was sent off in their 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton.

In the 83rd minute of the game, Gordon was sent off with a direct red card for pushing Brighton defender Jan Paul van Heyk's head with both hands. According to the rules, Gordon will face a three-match ban, which means Gordon will not be able to participate in the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.

In the post-match interview, Howe was asked about Gordon's red card. He said: "I don't know exactly what happened, so it's hard to draw a direct conclusion. I haven't watched the replay yet, but my first reaction is that this red card was a bit harsh."

"I believe he had no ill intentions and did not mean to hurt the other party. I just had a brief exchange with him and he was very disappointed. Gordon is not the kind of player who would deliberately commit a flagrant foul. I need to watch the replay again before I can give a clearer opinion."

However, Howe also said the club would reserve the right to appeal, saying: "If we analyse and believe there are reasonable grounds for complaint, we will not hesitate to appeal."

Gordon's inability to play in the Carabao Cup final is a blow to both him and Newcastle United. Howe admitted: "If this means he can't play in the final, it will be a huge blow."

"But as always, when one player has bad luck, another player has an opportunity. That's why we need a deep squad and that's why we have good players."

"I'm sure Anthony would want us to do the same. In his absence, we have to stay strong and go all out to win."