Kenny Dalglish has defended Liverpool striker Luis Suarez over accusations that he is prone to diving during matches.

The Uruguay international, who netted both goals in the Reds' 2-1 win over Stoke City in the Carling Cup last night, has faced criticism from the likes of Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson.

The claims came after Everton's Jack Rodwell was sent off for a tackle on the frontman during the Merseyside derby, a decision which was later overturned by the Football Association.

Dalglish explained the reason why the 24-year-old limped off the field at the Britannia Stadium last night.

"He got kicked right at the end of the first half," Dalglish told the club's official website. "He turned Jonathan Woodgate.

"He made contact with him, but he tried to stay on his feet to take the chance. That's where he hurt his leg.

"That just emphasises what we say about the wee man. He had the opportunity to stay on his feet [and did]."

Liverpool resume Premier League action this weekend when they take on former manager Roy Hodgson's side West Bromwich Albion.