Rodgers defends Reds striker Suarez

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers believes striker Luis Suarez has made a rod for his own back because of his spontaneous nature.

SUAREZ DIVING ROW

• Reds striker admits taking a dive
• Rodgers hits out at admission
• Suarez not malicious, says boss
• Swans stars Williams slams Suarez
• Diving accusations anger Suarez

Suarez has been back in the headlines for the wrong reasons again this week when he admitted to diving in a bid to win a penalty during the 0-0 draw with Stoke at Anfield.

The Uruguay international's confession has landed him in hot water with Rodgers, but the Liverpool manager reckons the player's previous misdemeanours leave him open to hostile press.

Rodgers said: "He has been a topic for people, particular for the media, because of his great moments of football and things which have happened off the pitch.

"The majority of this season has been based around his performances on the field, in which he has shown the true top player he is.

"In fairness to Luis he has knocked on my door and actually apologised as well.

"He got booked in a game (against Southampton) where he instinctively handled the ball and the very next day he came in and apologised for it. It is instinctive with him. That is the type of player he is.

"He is not malicious, it is just his nature. He is a sensitive boy as well and he seems to cope remarkably well with everything.

"He will always be a topic for conversation but that's because he's a top player."