Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre feels Luis Suarez is a 'target' for criticism this season and does not believe the Uruguayan is under pressure to change his style, following consistent allegations of diving.
Suarez was accused of attempting to con the referee in the weekend draw with Stoke at Anfield, and Potters boss Tony Pulis called for the Liverpool star to be banned retrospectively for his antics.
The actions of Suarez have seen the issue of diving emerge from the shadows once again, with Tottenham's Gareth Bale also implicated alongside the Liverpool star.
Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has also since admitted to deliberately going down in the box during his time as an England international, although was clear to state that he only did so when feeling contact from the opposition.
Ayre, meanwhile, does not believe Suarez is being fairly treated by officials or by fellow players this season, with the 25-year-old having had clear appeals for penalties rejected at times this term.
"I am not surprised by the reaction because we all feel he is a bit of target," Ayre told Sky Sports News.
"If you look from the start of this season or perhaps the end of last season through to last weekend I think it is fair to say Luis hasn't had the luck of the draw really in terms of decisions.
"It was proven on your channel and others that on many occasions that he was denied what he should have been given.
"I just feel his style of play, the way he kind of nips in and out he's just a target for tackles and defenders if you like.
"What I would say he has not had the rub of the green in terms of decisions but hopefully that changes as the season goes on.
"The most important thing is it doesn't affect Luis, he just turns it on each week and puts himself out there and he will keep going and that is what we need from him."
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