Liverpool chief Ian Ayre denies claims from Mansfield Town chairman John Radford that he was "embarrassed" by Luis Suarez's handball goal. Ayre insists that is untrue and has delivered a robust defence of the Reds' top scorer.

"It's nonsense to say that I was embarrassed," he told the Liverpool Echo.

"I spoke to their chairman after the game and we shook hands. I thanked him for their hospitality and wished them all the best of luck for the rest of the season.

"He said that our second goal was a clear handball. I said the referee didn't think it was deliberate and had given the goal and we move on.

"I certainly didn't give him any indication that I was embarrassed. I was the only director there so I don't know who he is referring to.

"I was surprised when I read his comments because Mansfield's manager and players showed a lot of dignity after the game. They spoke sense when they said these things happen in football all the time.

"It was a great game and a great occasion. Mansfield conducted themselves fantastically well both on and off the pitch.

"It's just disappointing that the chairman has made these comments. He's hurting at being knocked out, you can't blame him for that, but it's wrong to say that Luis kissing his wrist was in some way gloating over the handball. Luis does the same thing after every goal."