Steven Gerrard hits back at Bukayo Saka after Arsenal star makes demand to referees

Klopp gives injury update on Alexander-Arnold and Salah

Ralf Rangnick on next permanent Man Utd manager

Aston Villa v Arsenal: Pictures

Conor McGregor talks Jake Paul, sparring return and UFC title aspirations

Boro v Chelsea: Pictures

Antonio Conte Responds To Mikel Arteta's Fixture Complaints

Steven Gerrard has bluntly responded to Arsenal star Bukayo Saka after he pleaded with referees to give him more protection following the win at Aston Villa.

Saka’s first-half goal, his 10th of the Premier League season, was enough for the Gunners as they made it five away wins on the spin to boost their Champions League hopes even further. The trip to Villa Park was Mikel Arteta’s men's third game in six days, but the victory ensured they moved four points clear of fifth-placed Manchester United having played a game fewer.

Arsenal were made to graft for their victory in the Midlands however, with Gerrard’s side putting in a physical display which saw them compete right until the final whistle. Saka in particular was on the end of some meaty Villa challenges and was public enemy number one for supporters, after appearing to protest with referee Andrew Madley.

But the 20-year-old admitted afterwards that his chat with officials was to ask for a little more protection from opposition players. “I wasn’t complaining to the ref, but I just wanted to let him know that that’s my game, running at players with pace and sometimes I need a bit more protection when players are purposefully trying to kick me,” he told BT Sport.

Villa boss Gerrard, who cut a frustrated figure throughout his post-match media commitments refuted Saka’s claims and insisted it should be a learning moment for the England international. “He’s a good player, an