Ex-Manchester United star Patrice Evra congratulates former Liverpool rival Luis Suarez on Golden Shoe award

Patrice Evra has hailed Barcelona striker Luis Suarez as ‘the best number nine’ after the former Liverpool star received the Golden Shoe award for being Europe’s top goalscorer over the 2015-16 season.

Evra and Suarez share a controversial past after the Frenchman accused Suarez of using racially abusive language towards him during a match between Liverpool and Manchester United in October 2011.

The Uruguayan received an eight-game ban for his actions, as well as a £40,000 fine, but disputed the decision and subsequently refused to shake Evra’s hand when he returned to football for Liverpool against their north-west rivals in February 2012.

In retaliation, Evra celebrated United’s win that day right in front of Suarez which caused a reaction from a number of Liverpool players.

However, the Juventus left-back appears to have put the past behind him after posting a photograph of Suarez with his award on social media.

Evra wrote on his Instagram page: “In my Instagram there is only love and never hate!!!

“Luis, you’re a great player and the best No 9. Congratulations Luis @luissuarez9. I love this game !!! hahahaah.”

Suarez beat the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to the award after firing 59 goals in 53 games for Barcelona.