Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez replaced Steven Gerrard against Wigan for 'tactical reasons', it has been revealed.

The Daily Mail says Benitez replaced Gerrard seven minutes from the end of last night's damaging draw at Wigan for tactical reasons and not because the Liverpool captain was injured.

With Liverpool in desperate need of a win following Manchester United's 5-0 demolition of West Brom on Tuesday, Benitez surprisingly replaced Gerrard with Robbie Keane as he pushed for the win.

Benitez defended his decision on Match of the Day last night, claiming Gerrard was tired, but speaking to a friend after the game the player insisted the reason for his withdrawal was 'tactical'.