FA deny Houllier’s allegations over Gerrard’s suspension

THE FA has denied allegations from Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier that it suggested delaying Steven Gerrard’s suspension to allow him to play for England against Australia.

xMuch to Houllier's disgust, Gerrard was banned for three games for his two-footed tackle on Everton's Gary Naysmith in the December derby.

The midfielder's ban will start immediately, after Liverpool decided not to appeal, a process which could have left Gerrard free to play in England's February 12 friendly but ruled out of the Worthington Cup final against Manchester United.