Why Liverpool shouldn't confuse supporting Suarez with condoning racism

By Mark Lawrenson

Published 23:00 23/12/11

We have to assume that Kenny Dalglish knows all the evidence surrounding the Luis Suarez case.

That would explain Liverpool’s defence of Suarez and their shocked reaction after the eight-game ban and fine imposed upon him.

Suarez is vital to Liverpool, he is their best player at the moment, especially with Steven Gerrard injured.

But it has to go deeper than that. The issue is much bigger than about just wanting your star man playing every week.

Let’s not get away from the fact that if Suarez said what he is supposed to have said, then you have to take the punishment. Racism is unacceptable in any part of society, let alone football.

If there are different circumstances that need to be looked at, other evidence, then maybe that explains why Liverpool seem so determined to appeal.

That could lead to an extra game’s ban. And bearing in mind the FA could yet punish Suarez for a one-fingered gesture at Fulham then the suspension could mount up.

But if Dalglish and Liverpool feel there is a point of principle, they should fight it. If it’s just feeling hard done by, that’s a different matter. You can look at the ban and see eight games including two Carling Cup semi-finals, an FA Cup tie and suddenly that’s five rather than eight games.

That would still be a huge blow to Liverpool’s season. But this case isn’t just about Liverpool.

It’s much bigger than that and that’s why Liverpool – a club people look up to – have to make a decision which upholds their high standards.

That’s why, if this case is seen by the FA as setting a strong example then the rest of football must take note.

Is it right to make Suarez an example to prove a point? Probably not. We should not single out individuals. We should simply say any racism is unacceptable.

Maybe there is also a subliminal message in Liverpool wearing those T-shirts at Wigan.

It could be seen as cute man-management by Dalglish to keep his star player. A manager will go a long way to keep players happy. That is understandable – within limits.

Otherwise you could have a situation where he feels persecuted and wants to leave Liverpool and England.

Liverpool are right behind Suarez but that cannot be confused with anything other than support for a team-mate because no-one can condone racism.

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