Manchester United have welcomed Liverpool's response to the latest controversy surrounding the behaviour of Luis Suarez.
The Uruguayan, who has only recently returned from an eight match ban for racially abusing United defender Patrice Evra, created more headlines for himself and his club by refusing to shake the hand of the Frenchman before yesterday's game at Old Trafford.
Liverpool claim they were misled by the striker who had promised to take part in the pre-match ritual to draw a line under the matter, and were left stunned when he ended up ignoring the full-back.
Reds boss Kenny Dalglish had added to the ill-feeling between the two clubs with his post-match comments about the player's conduct during the day, but he has now admitted his regret at those remarks.
The Scot told Liverpool's official website: "When I went on TV after yesterday's game I hadn't seen what had happened, but I did not conduct myself in a way befitting of a Liverpool manager during that interview and I'd like to apologise for that."
Suarez, who scored the Reds' consolation in their 2-1 defeat, has also issued an official apology for his actions and now wants to put the whole episode behind him.
He said: "I have not only let him [Dalglish] down but also the club and what it stands for and I'm sorry. I made a mistake and I regret what happened.
"I should have shaken Patrice Evra's hand before the game and I want to apologise for my actions."
His statement, in addition to the remarks put out by Dalglish and Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre, has been well received by United, who share the striker's desire to move on from it.
A club statement on the official United website reads, "Manchester United thanks Liverpool for the apologies issued following Saturday's game.
""Everyone at Old Trafford wants to move on from this. The history of our two great clubs is one of success and rivalry, unparalleled in British football.
"That should be the focus in the future of all those who love the club."