Dutch midfielder takes full responsibility for challenge on international captain Virgil van Dijk.

Simons’ Swift Apology After Costly Red

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Xavi Simons has issued a public apology following his straight red card in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Liverpool at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on December 20, 2025.

The Dutch international was initially shown a yellow card by referee John Brooks for a challenge on Virgil van Dijk, but the decision was upgraded to red after a pitchside monitor review.

The dismissal compounded Spurs’ woes, as Cristian Romero was also sent off later, reducing Thomas Frank’s side to nine men.

Simons, who shares the Netherlands captaincy armband with Van Dijk at international level, posted on his official social media:

“Errors happen. Van Dijk is my captain (for Holland). I would never consciously hurt him or others.

“To my Spurs teammates, my coach and the fans. I take responsibility.

“I’m really sorry.”

The loss leaves Tottenham in 13th place in the Premier League table, highlighting the need for improvement in a challenging season.

A classy response from the midfielder amid a tough afternoon for Spurs.