Liverpool Striker Courts Controversy as Dalglish Seeks 'a Wee Bit of Protection'

Liverpool forward Luis Suarez's on-field temperament has come under scrutiny once again after he was observed making a gesture at Fulham supporters in the wake of Monday night's defeat at Craven Cottage.

The Uruguay international was subject to a barrage of taunts by the home support after his claims for a penalty in the second half were turned down by referee Kevin Friend.

The Liverpool player could face a misconduct charge after he made an offensive motion towards Fulham fans at the end of the game.

Suarez, who has been charged by the Football Association over allegations he racially abused Manchester United's Patrice Evra in October, could now face further disciplinary action subject to the referee's official match report.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish admitted he could be forced to discuss Suarez's conduct in light of the latest allegations but criticised those fans who goaded the Uruguayan.

"I haven't seen the picture and I'm not taking anybody's word for it," said Dalglish. "If you show me the picture and I'm convinced that what you're saying is true, then I've got a decision to make.

"But until you have proved it is true to me, I won't comment."

Suarez was subjected to chants of "cheat" after the Liverpool striker went down under a challenge by Brede Hangeland in the second half.

"That's scandalous. I would like to see you write that in the paper because you would be in a bit of trouble as well," Dalglish added.

"You write what you want to write. At the end of the day, we will look after Luis the best we can and I think it is about time he got a wee bit of protection from some people."

Liverpool's Champions League credentials were doubt a blow last night after Clint Dempsey's goal five minutes from time settled an entertaining encounter.

Jordan Henderson hit the post and Suarez had a goal disallowed for offside before the match turned when Jay Spearing was dismissed for an enthusiastic challenge on Mousa Dembele 18 minutes from time.

Dalglish refused to be drawn on the referee's decision to award the Liverpool midfielder a straight red-card but added: "I think you need to ask them [the referees] what their interpretation is. It's frustrating because no one ever tells us what the interpretation is.

"Jay had no other thought in his mind but to win the ball, and he did win the ball. I'm not a referee so all you can say is sometimes they are given, sometimes they are not, but as long as they are consistent then it's not a problem.

"I don't think we were going to get anything tonight, where we," Dalglish added.