The Anfield youngster has defended his Wales team-mate after the Spurs winger was once again booked for simulation during his side’s 3-0 Europa League victory over Inter

Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen insists Gareth Bale is “no diver” after the Tottenham winger was once again booked for simulation during his side’s 3-0 Europa League victory over Inter on Thursday night.

The 23-year-old has been in sensational form this year but his yellow card against the Italian side means he will miss the second leg of the tie in Turin – and he has now been cautioned by officials on four occasions for simulation.

However, Reds youngster Allen – whose side host Andre Villas-Boas’ outfit on Sunday afternoon – believes his Wales team-mate’s pace makes it difficult for referees to get decisions right, insisting Bale is no cheat.

“I wouldn’t describe Gareth as a diver,” he told Mirror Sport. “These are decisions a referee has to make because it’s their job. But when Gareth is ­running at pace it’s so difficult and it can be borderline. The referee makes his decision and it can go one way or the other.”

Allen’s Liverpool team-mate Luis Suarez has earned a similar reputation for simulation as his compatriot Bale, but he feels both stars are unfortunate to be targeted – and is thankful to be able to play alongside both.

“These allegations are made sometimes in football and it’s difficult to say if they are ­exaggerated,” he continued. “Gareth has taken it to a new level this season. He is in the form of his life. I’m lucky to play with both. I play club football with Luis week in, week out, and he’s incredible.”