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Steve Clarke hits back at Steven Gerrard over Jermain Defoe 'diving' row

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Kilmarnock manager Steve Clarke has hit back at Rangers boss Steven Gerrard over the punishment of players for alleged diving

Kilmarnock manager Steve Clarke says he has no qualms about upsetting other managers as his public row with Steven Gerrard continues.

Rangers boss Gerrard was unhappy with Clarke's comments after striker Jermain Defoe escaped censure for an alleged dive in Rangers' 4-0 victory against St Mirren, a fact that angered Clarke.

The Killie manager cited the example of one of his players, Jordan Jones, being given a retrospective two-game ban earlier in the season after being found guilty of diving against Dundee.

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard (left) shakes hands with Kilmarnock manager Steve Clarke
Image: Steven Gerrard and Steve Clarke have been critical of each other's comments

That has led to a debate about consistency in refereeing in the Scottish Premiership and, speaking ahead of Kilmarnock's Scottish Cup game with Rangers on Sunday, Clarke hit back at the criticism he received from Gerrard, a player he coached during their time at Liverpool.

"I just want consistency and if in asking for that consistency I have to upset a fellow manager or another club, then that's what I have to do. That's my job," said Clarke.

"Why Steven chose to come back personal, I'm not too sure.

"I'm 55 years of age and I've got no worries about how I live my life, personally or professionally, so that doesn't bother me."

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Rangers manager Steven Gerrard says he was surprised that Steve Clarke accused Jermain Defoe of diving.

Clarke also repeated his call for greater consistency of refereeing decisions from the Scottish Premiership compliance officer.

"That is what I am asking for [consistency], that's all. If you are at a smaller club you tend to get fewer column inches and a little bit less exposure than you do at the bigger clubs," he said.

"I just want everybody to be treated the same. I don't think the outcome is consistent."

Asked whether that surprised him, Clarke candidly replied: "Not really."

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