Tunnel row intensifies cup clash

22 January 2015 11:31

Liverpool's Capital One Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge is likely to have an extra edge next week after Jordan Henderson and Diego Costa raised the animosity levels in the first leg.

The pair got into an argument during Tuesday's 1-1 draw at Anfield when the Chelsea striker confronted the Reds' vice-captain after he had tangled with Cesc Fabregas in the second half.

Referee Martin Atkinson spoke to both players at the time but their disagreement is believed to have continued in the tunnel after the final whistle.

There was a verbal exchange between the pair but Press Association Sport understands there was no physical contact between the players.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers was unaware of the confrontation as he was already in his office after Raheem Sterling's goal equalised Eden Hazard's first-half penalty.

Both clubs have played down the incident but it adds an extra dimension to next Tuesday's second leg, when Liverpool will seek to become the first side since Atletico Madrid in April to win at Stamford Bridge.

Source: PA