“I had respect” – doesn’t now? Stevie take huge shot at rival…

Steven Gerrard has admitted today he’s essentially lost respect for Steve Clarke, a manager he previously praised significantly till the Killie boss tried his hardest to get Jermain Defoe banned for simulation.

Clarke spoke out about ‘diving’ and that Defoe should be given a ban, despite not appealing for a penalty nor staying grounded, and Gerrard, previously Clarke’s biggest admirer by his accounts of the Rugby Park chief, has expressed disappointment at the ex-Chelsea coach’s comments and inferred a loss of respect.

He said:

“There was a game we played against them recently, which was a blatant red card on Ryan Jack. I never mentioned it in the press because I had a respect for Steve Clarke and Kilmarnock so it’s very surprising and disappointing that he’s trying to get my player a two game ban.”

If ever a forked tongue came out for an opposition manager, this would be it. Gerrard is right – Clarke’s conduct is poor, and while Clarke may have been asked about it, he could easily have abstained from comment or been vague.

To be so explicit is poor, and the veiled dig that he’s lost respect for his own ex-coach who he previously had such time for really is about as acidic as Gerrard has yet been about an opponent.