FA apology welcome but too late

Hillsborough families yesterday welcomed the Football Association’s apology to all those affected by the disaster — but said it should have been made years ago.

FA chairman David Bernstein offered “a full and unreserved apology” following the Hillsborough Independent Panel’s report into the events at the FA Cup semi-final 23 years ago.

Margaret Aspinall of the Hillsborough family support group said the apology was long overdue.

She said: “We welcome the apology but the one thing that makes me angry is that we have had to wait for this report to come out before we get all the apologies that should have been made a long time ago. The FA did have a role in what happened so it’s right we should hear from them.”

Bernstein expressed sympathy for the families.

He said in a statement: “We are deeply sorry this tragedy occurred at a venue the FA selected.

“This fixture was played in the FA’s own competition, and on behalf of the Football Association I offer a full and unreserved apology and express sincere condolences to all of the families of those who lost their lives and to everyone connected to the city of Liverpool and Liverpool Football Club.”

He added: “This should never have happened.’’

* John Henry, principal owner of Boston Red Sox and also Liverpool, has dismissed as “completely without foundation’’ reports in America that plans are afoot to sell the baseball franchise.