Liverpool's Luis Suarez has apologised for refusing to shake Patrice Evra's hand in Saturday's Premier League match with Manchester United.
The Uruguayan was heavily criticised for failing to shake the United captain's hand prior to the match which the Red Devils won 2-1.
It was Suarez's second match back for Liverpool following his eight-game ban for racially abusing Evra in the reverse tie at Anfield last October.
The Frenchman had offered his hand to Suarez, who appeared to ignore the defender and instead shook the hand of United goalkeeper David De Gea.
Evra proceeded to grab his opponents arm and try to pull him back, however the South American did not look back and carried on along the line.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson branded Suarez a disgrace to Liverpool and said he should never be allowed to play for the club again.
But Suarez was apologetic after his actions sparked widespread condemnation.
"I have spoken with the manager (Kenny Dalglish) since the game at Old Trafford and I realise I got things wrong," Suarez said via a statement on Liverpool's 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 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, though, say Suarez misled the club by refusing to shake Evra's hand, as Reds' managing director Ian Ayre revealed that the Uruguayan told the club he would shake Evra's hand in discussions before the game.
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."
Manchester United has accepted the apologies, saying on their club website:
"Manchester United thanks Liverpool for the apologies issued following Saturday's game."
"Everyone at Old Trafford wants to move on from this. The history of our two great clubs is one of success and rivalry unparalleled in British football."
"That should be the focus in the future of all those who love the clubs."