The Football Association has accused Virgil van Dijk of acting in an “improper manner” after being sent off in Liverpool’s win against Newcastle.
The Liverpool captain was issued a straight red card in the 28th minute for fouling Newcastle’s Alexander Isak at St James’ Park on Sunday.
While the incident was being examined by VAR, the defender looked to protest with referee John Brooks.
The FA disclosed that Van Dijk allegedly used “abusive and/or insulting words.”
“Virgil van Dijk has been charged with a breach of FA rule E3.1 following Liverpool’s Premier League game against Newcastle United on Sunday, August 27,” said the FA in a statement.
“It’s alleged that the defender acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words towards a match official after being sent off in the 29th minute.”
The 32-year-old Netherlands centre-back, who also appeared to argue with the fourth official before making his way down the tunnel, has until Friday to respond to the charge.
Currently, Van Dijk will serve a one-match ban for the initial red card and miss Liverpool’s next game against Aston Villa on Sunday.
The charge comes after referees’ chief Howard Webb said he was “determined” officials would not “turn a blind eye” to bad behaviour from players and coaches this season.
The incident occurred three minutes after Liverpool went behind after Anthony Gordon’s opening goal and with the visitors under pressure in the game.
Darwin Nunez came off the bench to score twice late on and hand Liverpool a 2-1 victory to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.
