LIVERPOOL are “very surprised and disappointed” after the FA handed striker Luis Suarez an eight match ban and �40,000 fine for racially abusing Patrice Evra.

The Liverpool hitman, who has the right to appeal, was sanctioned by an FA Independent Regulatory Commission yesterday after Evra claimed Suarez racially abused him on 10 occasions during their Barclays Premier League fixture at Anfield on October 15.

A Liverpool statement issued last night said: “Liverpool Football Club is very surprised and disappointed with the decision of the Football Association Commission to find Luis Suarez guilty of the charges against him.

“We look forward to the publication of the Commission’s Judgment. We will study the detailed reasons of the Commission once they become available, but reserve our right to appeal or take any other course of action we feel appropriate with regards to this situation.

“We find it extraordinary that Luis can be found guilty on the word of Patrice Evra alone when no-one else on the field of play - including Evra’s own Manchester United team-mates and all the match officials - heard the alleged conversation between the two players in a crowded Kop goalmouth while a corner kick was about to be taken.

“The club takes extremely seriously the fight against all forms of discrimination and has a long and successful track record in work relating to anti-racist activity and social inclusion.

“We remain committed to this ideal and equality for all, irrespective of a person’s background.”

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