The former Reds midfielder has criticised the Uruguay international following his announcement that he wants to leave England and is baffled by his decision to blame the media

Dietmar Hamann has hit out at striker Luis Suarez following his declaration that he wants to leave Liverpool, insisting the Uruguayan has “dragged the image of the club through the mud”.

The Reds’ star man, who confirmed his desire to leave the Anfield club this week, insists he must leave England to protect the interests of his family and image following criticisms from the media.

With the 26-year-old having been caught up in a race row controversy involving Patrice Evra last year before biting Branislav Ivanovic in April, former Germany international Hamann has little sympathy for Suarez and believes that he has damaged Liverpool’s reputation.

Hamann Tweeted: “Suarez gave great service but missed 20 games, dragged the image of the club through the mud and now blames media for his exit #topguy”

Former Tottenham striker Gary Lineker, meanwhile, is in no doubt that Suarez should stay at Anfield after Brendan Rodgers’ side supported him during the various controversies that have marred his time in England.

He Tweeted: “Luis Suarez wants to leave Liverpool. Nice reward for a club that rightly or wrongly stuck steadfastly behind him.”