Luis Suarez banned for eight matches

 Liverpool's Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez (left) exchanges
 words with Patrice Evra in October

Liverpool's striker Luis Suarez has been banned for eight matches and fined £40,000 after been found guilty in Patrice Evra racism case. He aimed to racially abuse the Senegal-born Frenchman during a Premier League draw with Manchester United, in October.

"Today is a very difficult and painful day for me and my family. Thanks for all the support, I'll keep working," the 24 year-old Uruguayan tweeted.

He then added on his official website: "I'm upset by the accusations of racism. I can only say that I have always respected and respect everybody."

Suarez used the word "negro", which is regarded as extremely offensive in England. Suarez has consistantly denied the allegations arguing that due to cultural differences and linguistic nuances the word is not racially used in Uruguay.

Liverpool went furious after the FA banned the Uruguayan striker. Liverpool described themselves as "surprised and disappointed" with the "extraordinary" decision.

"It is our strong belief, having gone over the facts of the case, that Luis Suárez did not commit any racist act. It is also our opinion that the accusation by this particular player was not credible – certainly no more credible than his prior unfounded accusations," said a club statement.

"It appears to us that the FA were determined to bring charges against Luis Suarez, even before interviewing him at the beginning of November," the statement said.