Finally, Liverpool do the right thing
LUIS SUAREZ’S Liverpool future has been plunged into doubt after he was accused by Anfield officials of deceiving them over his intentions to shake hands with Patrice Evra.
The controversial striker was hauled over the coals by managing director Ian Ayre and manager Kenny Dalglish yesterday after he pointedly snubbed Manchester United defender Evra in the pre-match ceremony at Old Trafford.
Suarez was forced to issue a grovelling apology. Dalglish also expressed his regret for the confrontational interview he gave to Skysports after United’s 2-1 win on Saturday.
United issued a statement accepting the gestures.
Having assured Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli last Wednesday that he would shake Evra’s hand, Suarez dismayed Liverpool when he ignored the Frenchman, whom he was found guilty of racially abusing last October.
Ayre said: “We are extremely disappointed Luis Suarez did not shake hands with Patrice Evra. He was wrong to mislead us and wrong not to offer his hand.”
Suarez, 25, said: “I realise I got things wrong. I’ve not only let the manager down, but also the club and what it stands for. I should have shaken Patrice Evra’s hand and I want to apologise.”
Dalglish has been supportive of Suarez ever since the initial allegation of racism was made by Evra on October 15, but he did not attempt to defend the former Ajax Amsterdam striker yesterday.
Nevertheless, it took 120 days for Dalglish and Liverpool to finally get something right. That’s 120 days to work out how to do the decent thing.
When they came, statements from Dalglish, Suarez and Ayre served their purpose and, for once, delivered a clear message.
Finally, four months after Suarez and Patrice Evra clashed in the penalty box at Anfield on October 15, Liverpool declared themselves ready to move on. Finally, there was some contrition, some responsibility. It was all long overdue.
Forget all the other low days this club has endured since mid-autumn. Forget the days of the silly T-shirts and the rambling, bemusing statements. For none has been lower than Saturday. – Daily Mail