Liverpool have thanked Everton for their tribute to the 96 fans who died in the Hillsborough disaster.

For last night's game with Newcastle United, Everton were led out by two mascots, one wearing the Toffees' kit and another wearing the Reds' with their shirt numbers displaying 96 when they stood side by side.

As the teams and supporters united in a round of applause, photographs and names of each of the 96 victims were displayed on the giant television screens, while the public address system played The Hollies' song 'He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother'.

And Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre has thanked Everton for their gesture.

"I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the staff and fans at Everton Football Club from everyone at Liverpool for the display of support you have shown the Hillsborough families," he told Liverpool's official website.

"We've always been great rivals on the pitch but off it, the two clubs have always supported each other.

"In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, Everton Football Club was there for us and that solidarity was on display again last week when the Hillsborough Independent Panel's findings were revealed.

"At times like this, football rivalries take a back seat - something that makes this city unique. I think supporters of both clubs can be immensely proud of the way they have conducted themselves over the past days, weeks and years since the tragedy."