Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has admitted that he went "too far" with his criticism of Everton immediately after their 2-2 draw at Goodison Park at the weekend.
The Reds skipper launched an attack on both the Blues and their captain Phil Neville following a highly-charged 219th Merseyside derby.
Gerrard claimed that if David Moyes were a "real man" he would admonish Neville for the booking he was given for diving. However, the England captain has now said that he was over-zealous in his initial assessment of the game.
"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 [Suarez, in injury time] when I spoke and also some of the things that have been said about Luis in recent weeks which haven't been fair in my opinion. As captain I have a duty to stand up for our players when I feel they are unfairly singled out.
"But it wasn't my intention to disrespect Everton or Stoke for that matter and I certainly didn't intend any disrespect to their manager or players. I have the utmost respect for David Moyes and Tony Pulis and the job they have done at their respective clubs."
Liverpool play Swansea City on Wednesday night in the League Cup.
Paul Gorst
