Football: Gerrard says sorry to Everton

Footballer writes off controversial comments to frustration due to fellow teammate's performance.

LONDON: Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has apologised for dismissing rivals Everton as a long-ball team in the aftermath of a stormy Merseyside derby. Gerrard described Everton as playing like Stoke, a team notorious for their direct approach and aggressive tactics, following Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Goodison Park. But the England midfielder has moved to make amends for his controversial comments by claiming he was speaking out of frustration after Liverpool striker Luis Suarez had a goal wrongly disallowed for offside in the closing moments.

“Just to clarify I’ve watched the game again and I’ve seen some of Everton’s matches this season, and what I said in relation to their style of play went too far,” said Gerrard. “I was frustrated by the disallowed goal from Luis when I spoke. It wasn’t my intention to disrespect Everton or Stoke and I certainly didn’t intend any disrespect to their manager or players.”

Published in The Express Tribune, November 1^st, 2012.