The Football Association may reportedly impose additional sanctions on Virgil van Dijk after he appeared to criticise the referee's decision to dismiss him on Sunday.
In the opening period of Liverpool's comeback victory over Newcastle, the Liverpool captain was shown a straight red card for a questionable challenge that prevented Alexander Isak from having a chance to score.
Darwin Nunez scored two goals off the bench despite being down a man, miraculously giving the 10-man Reds three points.
Van Dijk's reaction after the red card was questionable with the defender calling the decision a 'f***ing joke'.
The offence potentially falls into the category of improper conduct towards the officials according to reports.
Van Dijk faces further action
Van Dijk is expected to get a one-game suspension, but the FA may take additional action against him for allegedly cursing, pointing in the face of the referee and initially refusing to leave the field.
According to Daily Mail, Van Dijk and fourth official Craig Pawson also looked to have heated exchanges.
Mike Dean, a former official, stated to Mail Sport, "Van Dijk disagreed as he unleashed a verbal volley on fourth official Craig Pawson, which was out of line."
Van Dijk can run into more issues with the football authorities depending on what is said in the referee's report.
According to FA regulations, players who engage in "improper behaviour" such as using harsh language may face additional sanctions.
The FA manual specifies it will penalise "confrontational" behaviour and numerous players have in the past received further suspension to their initial punishment for misbehaviour toward officials after receiving a red card.
Van Dijk is set to miss Liverpool's next Premier League game against Aston Villa at Anfield on Sunday.
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