Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has admitted that he should not have slammed Everton the way he did this week, saying: "I went too far."
Following the 2-2 draw at Goodison Park in the Merseyside derby on Sunday, the Reds midfielder claimed that the Toffees have a direct and physical style that is comparable to that of Stoke City.
Those comments saw Everton defender Phil Jagielka hit back at the 32-year-old, and Gerrard now admits that he went a bit too far with his criticisms.
"Just to clarify I've watched the game again, and I've seen some of Everton's matches this season, and what I said in relation to their style of play went too far," he told The Liverpool Echo.
"I was frustrated by the disallowed goal from Luis [Suarez] when I spoke and also some of the things (diving allegations) that have been said about Luis in recent weeks which haven't been fair in my opinion.
"As captain I have a duty to stand up for our players when I feel they are unfairly singled out. But it wasn't my intention to disrespect Everton or Stoke for that matter and I certainly didn't intend any disrespect to their manager or players.
"I have the utmost respect for David Moyes and Tony Pulis and the job they have done at their respective clubs.
"My main issue was with the goal that wasn't given and that Liverpool did not get the three points I felt we deserved in what was a fantastic derby match."
