Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard has rejected complaints from Arsenal attacker Bukayo Saka over his treatment on Saturday.

The 20-year-old admitted afterwards he spoke with match officials wanting protection from opposition players.

“I wasn't complaining to the ref, but I just wanted to let him know that that's my game, running at players with pace and sometimes I need a bit more protection when players are purposefully trying to kick me," Saka told BT Sport.

Villa boss Gerrard, who cut a frustrated figure throughout his post-match media commitments refuted Saka's claims and insisted it should be a learning moment for the England international.

“He's a good player, an outstanding talent. I love him. But he can't complain about that side of it, that's football," Gerrard said.

“I'm sitting here now with screws in my hips. I've had about 16 operations. I'm struggling to go to the gym at the moment.

“That's all on the back of earning a living in English football. He'll learn and he'll learn quick."

The Liverpool legend added: “He said we were too rough? They didn't commit any fouls today? Listen, it's part of the game. The last time I checked, it wasn't a no-contact sport. I think tackles are allowed, physicality is allowed, aggression is allowed as long as it's fair."