Liverpool star responds to criticism from Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer

Liverpool star Diogo Jota has responded to criticism he received following a controversial incident in his side’s home win against Newcastle United earlier this month.

The Portugal winger came off the bench during the final half-hour of the Reds’ 4-2 win over Eddie Howe’s men and played his part in the final goal of the game that killed off any hopes of the Magpies claiming an unlikely point at Anfield.

With just under five minutes remaining, Jota broke in behind the United defence and rounded goalkeeper Martin Dubravka before going to ground under what seemed to be minimal contact from the Magpies stopper.

The alleged ‘dive’ provoked a furious response from Newcastle supporters and they were backed up by several pundits in the aftermath of the game.  Magpies legend Alan Shearer described the incident as ‘embarrassing’ via his X (formerly Twitter) account before making similar comments on the ‘The Rest is Football’ podcast.  Jota has now responded to criticism from pundits and gave his take on the situation - although did not reference the former Newcastle and England captain directly.

He told reporters: “Listen, of course I saw some comments from ex-players and people who are paid to talk about situations.

“The only thing I can say is even the keeper said it was a touch and I didn’t feel the conditions to stay up. So that’s it.  Would I rather put the ball in the net than see Mo (Salah) take a penalty? Yes, of course. That’s what I like to do, to score goals. That’s all I have to say.”