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After all the ludicrous denials and talk of witch-hunts, conspiracies and scapegoats, Luis Suarez finally ended the charade.

The Liverpool FC striker has belatedly acknowledged what the world already knew by admitting he sunk his teeth into Giorgio Chiellini. Suarez says he “deeply regrets” his actions and has vowed it will never happen again.

The question is why now? Why the sudden show of remorse six days after the Uruguayan should have fronted up and embarked on a damage limitation exercise?

It was that initial shocking lack of contrition which led to FIFA hitting him with an unprecedented four-month ban from all football.

The timing of his statement on Monday won't convince anyone of its sincerity following reports in Spain that Barcelona had informed his advisers a public apology would be required prior to the Catalans opening negotiations with Liverpool over a transfer.

Maybe Suarez merely decided it was time to face up to the consequences of his actions or possibly his remaining sponsors demanded action.

What we do know is that Liverpool had no part to play in the issuing of the statement. The first they knew of it was when it landed on Twitter and Facebook.

There were two glaring omissions from Suarez.

First, the bold assertion that the offence won't happen again didn't come with any promise that he will seek the help he clearly needs.

Secondly, there was no mention of his employers. The lack of an apology to Liverpool for the embarrassment he has caused and the almighty headache he has given them ahead of the new season will only fuel the belief that he has no intention of returning to Anfield.

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