• Premier League

I've lost all respect for Suarez - Ferdinand

ESPN staff
February 11, 2012
Rio Ferdinand's error led to Luis Suarez's consolation goal for Liverpool at Manchester United © Getty Images
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Rio Ferdinand has explained why he did not shake the hand of Luis Suarez prior to Manchester United's 2-1 victory over Liverpool, revealing he has lost all respect for the Uruguayan.

Suarez appeared to instigate the ill-feeling at Old Trafford on Saturday, prompting an angry response from Patrice Evra when he bypassed the Frenchman for a pre-match handshake. It was the first time the pair had met on a football pitch since Suarez was banned for racially abusing the United man.

As a knock-on effect Ferdinand then ignored Suarez's hand, but he insists the Liverpool striker only has himself to blame.

"I thought it was bad decision-making from their guy," Ferdinand told MUTV. "It's a touchy subject at the minute and things could have been put to bed a little bit easier if the handshake had been done.

"After seeing what I saw I decided not to shake his hand. He's not got the respect that he needs to have in these situations and acknowledge he's made a mistake and say sorry. I lost all respect for the guy after that.

"It could have been resolved, maybe, between the two people who are involved. After this, it's not great. It's disappointing. I expected more from the other guy but it wasn't to be."

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson reacted to Suarez's actions by claiming the player should never play for Liverpool again. Ferguson labelled Suarez a "disgrace to Liverpool Football Club".

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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