Merseyside Police have cleared Liverpool striker El Hadji Diouf following an investigation into allegations he spat at West Ham supporters earlier this season.
The police received complaints from fans after the game at Anfield on November 2nd, alleging that the Senegal international, an unused substitute, had spat in their direction whilst warming up.
The club denied the claims at the time but have since accepted that Diouf did spit on the ground. The club said their original statement may have been worded too strongly.
A club statement released today read: "An incident was alleged by West Ham fans during the match involving El Hadji Diouf which was categorically refuted and denied.
"Despite this, we have conducted a thorough investigation into the matter, reviewing correspondence from both West Ham and Liverpool fans and liaising closely with Merseyside Police.
"Merseyside Police have decided there was no evidence that an offence was committed, but have concluded that Mr Diouf did spit on the ground as he warmed up as a substitute.
"As a result of discussions with Merseyside Police the club has now reviewed its procedures, particularly in relation to the location where substitute players are allowed to warm up.
"On reflection, Liverpool FC appreciate that the tone of the original statement was not helpful to the good relations enjoyed between the club and West Ham fans and wish to apologise for any offence caused."