Liverpool full-back Andy Robertson defended Mohamed Salah, saying any accusations of diving aimed at the forward were “desperation”.
Salah again came under fire after being fouled for a penalty, which he converted, in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Egypt star was similarly criticised following Liverpool’s thrashing of Arsenal last month.
Robertson backed his team-mate and said the constant questions surrounding Salah were unfair.
“He is not that sort of player, so how many times is it going to happen?
“I was at the edge of the box and it was a stonewaller. If people are starting to say Mo has gone down easily, it’s not fair.
“The one against Arsenal, especially, he got clipped three times. They still appealed. It’s a bit of desperation.”
Salah’s spot-kick sent Liverpool seven points clear at the top, although Manchester City can close that back to four with a win over Wolves on Monday.