Liverpool condemn Suarez deceit

Liverpool have revealed that Luis Suarez misled the club by refusing to shake Patrice Evra’s hand in Saturday’s clash with Manchester United.

Suarez snubbed Evra’s outstretched hand as the teams exchanged handshakes before the Premier League match at Old Trafford, prompting an angry response from the Frenchman and further inflaming an already tense atmosphere surrounding the fixture.

Liverpool striker Suarez recently returned from an eight-match ban after being found guilty by the FA of racially abusing Evra in the reverse fixture last October.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson branded Suarez ‘a disgrace’ after Saturday’s match, and Liverpool managing director Ayre has now revealed the Uruguayan told the club he would shake Evra’s hand in earlier discussions.

He has condemned the striker for misleading Liverpool on the issue, and believes his actions have let the club down.

“We are extremely disappointed Luis Suarez did not shake hands with Patrice Evra before yesterday’s game,” Ayre said in a statement on the club’s official website.

“The player had told us beforehand that he would, but then chose not to do so.”

“He was wrong to mislead us and wrong not to offer his hand to Patrice Evra. He has not only let himself down, but also Kenny Dalglish, his teammates and the club.”

“It has been made absolutely clear to Luis Suarez that his behaviour was not acceptable. Luis Suarez has now apologised for his actions which was the right thing to do.”

“However, all of us have a duty to behave in a responsible manner and we hope that he now understands what is expected of anyone representing Liverpool Football Club.”