Liverpool striker Luis Suarez apologises for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez has apologised for his "inexcusable behaviour" after biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic.

The incident occurred in the second half of Liverpool's 2-2 draw against Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday.

"I've spoken to Ivanovic on the phone and I could apologise directly to him," Suarez tweeted. "Thanks for accepting."

In an earlier statement, he said: "I apologise to my manager and everyone at Liverpool for letting them down."

Blues defender Ivanovic, 29, complained to referee Kevin Friend that he had been bitten on his right arm by Suarez after their clash inside the Chelsea penalty area.

"Having reviewed the video footage and spoken to Luis, his behaviour is unacceptable and I have made him aware of this," said Reds manager Brendan Rodgers.

Ian Ayre, the Premier League club's managing director, added Suarez's behaviour did not "befit" that of a Liverpool player.

Former Ajax captain Suarez, who scored his 30th goal of the season in Sunday's draw, has bitten a rival on the pitch before.

The Uruguayan international, who signed for the Reds in January 2011, was given a seven-match ban for biting PSV Eindhoven midfielder Otman Bakkal during a game in November 2010.