Luis Suarez bite: Uruguay striker finally breaks his silence - to thank fans for 'support and love' after receiving four-month ban

The Liverpool striker posted a message on Twitter to his fans after receiving support following his return to Uruguay

Luis Suarez arrived in Montevideo and has thanked the fans for their support

Luis Suarez has broken his silence over his controversial four-month ban - thanking fans for their 'support and love' as he returned home to Montevideo.

The 27-year-old. who was banned on Wednesday for nine matches and handed a four-month worldwide ban from all football activity, took to Twitter to make his first comment since his ban from FIFA.

Suarez has strenuously denied FIFA's ruling that he bit Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during the Group D match between the two sides, despite Chiellini appearing to show bite marks on his shoulder.

But as Suarez appeared all smiles when he returned to his native Uruguay, he posted an emotional message to his fans on Twitter, as well as a supporting message for his team-mates, who play Colombia in the second round.

"Hi all, I write this post to give thanks to the outpouring of support and love I am receiving. Both myself and my family really appreciate it.

"Thank you very much for being by my side and I want all my colleagues today we support selection for the match against Colombia."

Suarez, who has been strongly linked with Barcelona and Real Madrid, is set to be out of action until October 26 if Uruguay's appeal is rejected.