Italy World Cup winner, Marco Tardelli has called for Liverpool to be handed a 10-match ban over their “arrogant” play against Tottenham on Sunday.
According to the former Italy international, the Reds were fortunate not to receive punishment for their tackling against Tottenham.
The Reds played out a 2-2 draw with Tottenham and much of the post-match discussion has centred on referee Paul Tierney’s handling of the game.
Liverpool’s Andy Robertson was red-carded for a wild challenge on Tottenham’s Emerson Royal in the second half, while Harry Kane got just a yellow for arguably a worse challenge earlier in the match.
While Robertson and Klopp may feel aggrieved, Tardelli says the Reds should count themselves lucky and claims the Reds are given “protection”.
Tardelli, who was assessing the quality of Liverpool compared to their Champions League last 16 opponents Inter Milan, told Gazzetta dello Sport, “I hear people say that Liverpool are unplayable, but no team is, especially against this Inter side.
“The important thing is that Inter play with this same hunger and desire to play football.
“They need a different level of intensity with Liverpool and also a better rapport with the referee.
“The fouls that Liverpool players did against Tottenham yesterday, they’d have received a 10-match ban in Italy
“Besides, Liverpool are almost arrogant in the way they play, all too aware of how strong they are and the protection that they enjoy.”
Liverpool will play Inter Milan away in Italy in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on February 16, with the return leg at Anfield on March 8.