Suarez ‘loves English game’ says Rodgers

Published on 31/10/2012 00:00

LIVERPOOL manager Brendan Rodgers has dismissed fears striker Luis Suarez will be forced out of the English game by continuing criticism.

The Uruguay forward has had to endure plenty since his arrival from Ajax in January of 2011 and it shows no signs of easing just yet. He was banned for eight matches last season after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra while the focus this campaign has been on his perceived diving.

Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge expressed his concern the 25-year-old could walk away from the club because of the hard time he gets from opposition managers and supporters but Rodgers rejected that. “I think he loves playing in English football,” said Rodgers of Suarez, who only signed a new long-term contract at the start of the season. “I speak with Luis regularly and he loves the passion and excitement of the game over here. What he is is a player who is mentally very strong – as you can see from his time here the amount of stick he has taken.

“It is actually a driver for him. It really motivates him and he loves being at Liverpool: he loves the city, the club and the supporters so I can’t see that [being forced out] happening.”

Suarez answered his critics, and, more pertinently, David Moyes with a sarcastic dive at the Everton manager’s feet after his deflected shot brought the opening goal in Sunday’s Merseyside derby draw. “I thought he was outstanding [against Everton]. He is a breath of fresh air with his enthusiasm,” added Rodgers.

Suarez is likely to be given the night off tonight when Rodgers’ former club Swansea visit in the Capital One Cup.