Luis Suarez apologised today as Liverpool claimed he misled the club after indicating to them he would shake hands with Manchester United defender Patrice Evra prior to yesterday's game before refusing to do so on the pitch.

The Uruguayan, who was banned for eight matches after racially abusing Evra during the league game between the sides at Anfield in October, had been expected to shake hands with the Frenchman but failed to do so.

Suarez has apologised for his actions and Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre has now also released a statement criticising Suarez's actions. He told www.liverpoolfc.tv: "We are extremely disappointed Luis Suarez did not shake hands with Patrice Evra before yesterday's game. The player had told us beforehand that he would, but then chose not to do so."

He added: "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 team-mates 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."

Suarez issued his own apology earlier on Sunday

"I have spoken with the manager (Kenny Dalglish) since the game at Old Trafford and I realise I got things wrong," he said in a statement on the Liverpool official website.

"I've not only let him down, but also the club and what it stands for and I'm sorry. I made a mistake and I regret what happened.

"I should have shaken Patrice Evra's hand"