The consequences of being found guilty over his alleged race row with Manchester United fullback Patrice Evra could be dire for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez. The Daily Mail says Reds owner John W Henry has joined manager Kenny Dalglish in offering his full support to Suarez.

But if the verdict goes against Suarez, Henry would find himself in a very awkward position.

"If it's true, your guy's in trouble," said Dan Shaughnessy, a Boston Globe columnist and seasoned Henry observer. "John Henry is a man of honour and an open thinker who treats people equally with no regard for race or colour. He is completely tolerant and an advocate of everybody getting along.

"There have been no incidents like this during his time in Boston, but he would revile at that. His morality would be violated."