Blackburn Rovers midfielder Vince Grella admits he was offended by comments made by Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez recenlty.

The Reds manager said that the Rovers were simply a long-ball team that are over-physical after the 2-1 result ended in favour of the Anfield club last weekend.

Grella was unhappy with the Spaniard's comments but admitted that it was part and parcel of professional football.

"I've played football in Italy for a long time and to be labelled a long-ball specialist was a little bit offensive," he told Sky Sports News.

"But it's part of football. You've got to have thick skin.

"I'm a little bit disappointed. I thought we had a great game against Liverpool.

"I've seen it in Liverpool's players' eyes that it was a tough game for them and they couldn't wait for the final whistle."