Gerrard: My Vieira tackle was late

Steven Gerrard has admitted his tackle on Patrick Vieira in the Community Shield final was late.

But the Liverpool star, who picked up a yellow card for the challenge, has defended himself against claims from Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger that he should have been sent off.

Gerrard said: "I was just a bit late, these things happen in matches every week.

"I was trying to stamp my authority on the game."

Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier also leapt to the defence of the midfielder.

"I think everyone is being a little unfair on Stevie. I have seen the incident again on TV and although he deserved a yellow card it was not worth a red.

"The tackle was late but it wasn't malicious."