Liverpool's Gerrard set for reprieve after 'flashing V-sign' at referee Marriner
09 Mar 2010 - 19:20:48
Steven Gerrard is set to escape disciplinary action over his flash of temper at the DW Stadium when he appeared to aim a V-sign at referee Andre Marriner during Liverpool's calamitous 1-0 defeat by lowly Wigan.
Television pictures showed the Liverpool skipper apparently raising two fingers towards the match official and mouthing an obscenity, following his caution for a reckless challenge eight minutes from time.
Stevie V: Gerrard makes shameful gesture towards referee Andre Marriner after he was booked in Liverpool's defeat at Wigan
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez claimed he had not seen the incident,which happened on the far side of the pitch from the dug-outs, whileclub officials strenuously denied Gerrard had done anything untowardafter quizzing him about it.
Gerrard, who led England out against Egypt last week in the wake ofJohn Terry's sacking as skipper, still looked in danger of becoming thelatest captain of the national team to land in hot water, followingsuggestions the FA would launch an investigation.
But the England midfielder may well be off the hook, following earlysigns from Marriner and Soho Square that they were ready to let thematter drop.
Hugo's boss: Rodallega rams home Wigan's winner to lift the Latics to 14th
Marriner is understood to have been sounded out by Wigan officialsbefore leaving the ground and indicated that he viewed the flashpointas a momentary act of frustration not worthy of any further sanction.
Sportsmail understands the FA are taking a similar view and prepared to gloss over it, once they have consulted with Marriner.
It will come as a huge relief to Gerrard, who was clearly irritatedby his side's shortcomings on the night, and Benitez, who canill-afford to lose the drive and energy of his inspirational skipper asLiverpool attempt to stay in the race for a fourth-place finish that isincreasingly beginning to look beyond them.
Floored: Fernando Torres failed to convert several chances at the DW Stadium
Liverpool's first-ever defeat by Wigan left them in sixth position,having played more games than their main rivals Manchester City,Tottenham and Aston Villa. Just as worryingly, it exposed howalarmingly fragile their self-belief has become in a season that showsno sign of improving after the earlier hammer blows of bowing out ofthe Champions' League and FA Cup.
Wigan Athletic 1 Liverpool 0: Hugo Rodallega rocks Rafa's bid as Reds blow chance to go fourthLiverpool fans won't stand for Benitez's horror show at Wigan, says JewellBabel insists Liverpool can still finish fourth despite poor defeat at WiganLiverpool boss Rafa to use Aquilani sparingly during end of season run-inLIVERPOOL FC
