Sunday, August 04, 2013

Suarez Shown Support In Gerrard Match

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was given a rousing ovation at Anfield as he made a second-half cameo in Steven Gerrard's testimonial against Olympiakos.

The Reds have rejected two offers from Arsenal for Suarez, 26, who wants to play in the Champions League.

"It just shows you the class of the Liverpool supporters. They love their own and Luis is still very much part of the group," boss Brendan Rodgers said.

Goals from Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson secured the Reds a 2-0 win.

Rodgers added: "Maybe people wondered what kind of reception he would get, but that's the type of supporters Liverpool is.

"Saturday was another message from them that they love him here. We all love him, as a manager, players and supporters. He was probably humbled by the reception."

The Uruguay international's Anfield future remains uncertain after he spoke of his desire to leave despite only signing a new long-term contract in August 2012.

Arsenal made a club-record offer of £40m plus £1 for Suarez in the belief it would enable them to secure his services, but Liverpool dispute the interpretation of a clause in his contract.

Sources close to the player say he will consider submitting a formal transfer request and the possibility of court action if the issue is not resolved.

But, despite the ongoing saga, Reds supporters took the opportunity to give Suarez a clear sign they want him to stay when he came on after 62 minutes of Saturday's game.

Rodgers said: "It is very, very simple: he is a top player and we don't want to sell him."

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