Liverpool dealt major blow as £35m star ruled out of Newcastle United clash

Liverpool will be without £35million summer signing Alexis Mac Allister for next week’s Premier League clash at Newcastle United following his red card against Bournemouth.

The Argentine midfielder was sent off by referee Thomas Bramall in the 58th minute after a challenge on Cherries midfielder Ryan Christie. A VAR check did take place but stuck by the on-field decision meaning the former Brighton and Hove Albion star will miss the next three games versus Newcastle, Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Former referee Mike Dean agreed with the decision. “Yeah, his foot’s raised,” he told Sky Sports News. The guy’s cleared the ball and he’s caught him. He’s probably caught him shin high, his foot off the floor so I’ve got no issues with the decision.

“Was looked at by VAR, I’ve heard that as well, it’s the right decision by Thomas Bramall.”

However, BBC presenter Gary Lineker disagreed. He tweeted: “Mac Allister sees red but it’s nonsense. Referee and VAR at Anfield having a poor day.”

Jurgen Klopp’s side lead 2-1 at the time of the incident after goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah cancelled out Antoine Semenyo’s opener for the visitors.

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New signing Waturu Endo was immediately introduced from the bench after Mac Allister’s dismissal. A third goal from Diogo Jota ensured the Reds picked up their first Premier League win of the campaign.

Eddie Howe’s men face Premier League champions Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium this evening (kick-off 8pm) before welcoming Liverpool to St James’ Park.