Liverpool deny Diouf 'spitting' claim

El Hadji Diouf joined Liverpool this season

Premiership leaders Liverpool have categorically denied allegations that Senegal striker El Hadji Diouf spat at visiting supporters during the 2-0 win over West Ham at Anfield on Saturday.

The allegations were reportedly made to police by some fans of the London club after the game, in which Diouf, one of the stars of the summer's World Cup, was an unused substitute.

Owen sinks West Ham

Liverpool spokesman Ian Cotton said: "We absolutely, categorically deny allegations that El Hadji Diouf spat at or spat in the direction of West Ham fans.

"These allegations were brought to our attention by the police after the game and we have since spoken to the player. It is absolutely untrue.

"After the game we spoke to our stewards who were in the area, and they have totally refuted the claims made by the West Ham fans."