Suarez: I should have shaken Evra's hand. I let the team down

Written by TSJ | 12 February 2012
Posted in Blogs - Blogs

There was always bound to be controversy at yesterday's match between the great footballing rivals, Manchester United and Liverpool. There was much speculation before the match as to whether Patrice Evra would shake the hand of Luis Suarez, a man he accused of racially abusing him and for which the latter was on the receiving end of an 8-match ban. This was to be his first start since coming back from the ban and as events unfurled, Evra held out his hand and Suarez ignored him.

There has since been a lot of discussion around this issue and Suarez has released an apology through the club's official website:

"I have spoken with the Manager since the game at Old Trafford and I realise I got things wrong. 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 before the game and I want to apologise for my actions.

"I would like to put this whole issue behind me and concentrate on playing football."

Liverpool's Managing Director also pitched in with the following statement:

"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 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."

What do you think? Should it have become such an issue? is hand-shaking before football matches a farce and should it be removed from the game? Comment below the line and let us know what you think.