Liverpool's Steven Gerrard has defended his controversial tackle on Patrick Vieira that left Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger fuming after the Community Shield clash in Cardiff.

England midfield man Gerrard was booked for an early challenge on Vieira - but Wenger insisted he should have been sent off.

Gerrard was then fortunate to escape a red card for another tackle on Thierry Henry - and has been subjected to heavy criticism for his approach in Arsenal's 1-0 win.

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

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The England star added: "I was trying to stamp my authority on the game."

Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier also leapt to Gerrard's defence, saying: "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."

Wenger begged to differ with his fellow countryman, saying: "The tackle was reckless and dangerous, and he should have received a red card.

"Patrick doesn't expect presents - but neither does he expect somebody to behave in such an unfair way.

"Steven is a great player, but it was the worst challenge in the game."