Rafael Benitez is asking for a meeting with Keith Hackett, the referee's chief, over the sending-off of Javier Mascherano at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The Liverpool manager insists his side have been unduly criticised after the incident and fears the Football Association will seek to make an example of Mescherano, who continued to argue with referee Steve Bennett after was given a second yellow card for dissent during the 3-0 defeat to Manchester United.

Mascherano has been given an automatic one-match ban, but the FA could increase it by two extra games.

Benitez said: “I would like to speak to Keith Hackett, because it is important that we find a solution. At Liverpool, we respect the game; we respect the rules and we respect the referee - and it is important to remember that Mascherano was the first Liverpool player to be sent off in the league this season.”

If Mascherano is banned from subsequent games against Arsenal and Blackburn Rovers, Liverpool could well demand a personal hearing - which would delay any future ban.

Mascherano would be banned from league games only - starting with Sunday’s derby against Everton - but would be able to play in both Champions League quarter-final legs against Arsenal.

Liverpool believe the player was appealing for Fernando Torres to be given more protection by the referee, rather than being abusive or arguing.