Is Liverpool’s Suarez a ‘diver’ or just smart?

Liverpool’s Uruguayan centre-forward Luis Suarez has been described by commentators as being, “As slippery as an eel.”

With each match his ability to draw fouls might induce a new metaphor – one that involves diving perhaps.

Depending on which side of the game you’re on, Suarez’s ability to go down theatrically at the slightest touch can be viewed as “smart play” or just plain “dirty”.

Jack Rodwell of Everton was the receiving end of a Suarez dive – a red card end, in the derby match before Manchester United went to Liverpool on Saturday.

For what, replays showed, was not even a foul, Suarez went into rolls of agony. Jack got red. Everton lost.

Against United, again Suarez displayed his dislike for any one snapping at his heels as he keeled over twice, again from what replays showed were not as deathly as his reaction made out to be.

Suarez, nicknamed El Pistolero — the Gunslinger — has hit out saying, “I don't trick anybody. I have never been a diver — only a forward who receives so many fouls.”

From the Liverpool point of view, and even some neutrals, it is smart play by Suarez. He gets defenders carded and they can’t go near him.

Only time will tell if he tarnishes his considerable talent with the sully reputation of being a diver.