Football: Rodgers backs Suarez after diving row

LIVERPOOL: Liverpool coach Brendan Rodgers blasted what he termed the ‘vilification’ of Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez, branded a diver by Stoke boss Tony Pulis. Rodgers feels Suarez is suffering from a reputation which goes before him, with the Liverpool boss fearing he will not get a penalty even if he is fouled. Pulis called for three-match bans for players who dive — making reference to one theatrical fall by Suarez. But Rodgers said he suspected double standards as he noted Stoke defender Robert Huth escaped punishment despite appearing to stamp on Suarez after the Football Association confirmed the incident was seen by officials at the time so no further action can be taken. “At this moment there seems to be one set of rules for Luis and another set for everyone else,” said Rodgers.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 10^th, 2012.