Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has released a statement praising "the courage and dignity shown by the Hillsborough families and survivors".

The 30-year-old also blasted the "shameful slandering" of individuals "who abused their position and power".

The statement read: "The courage and dignity shown by the Hillsborough families and survivors is an example to all of us. For 23 years they have fought for truth and justice on behalf of the victims and survivors of this terrible tragedy and all Liverpool supporters.

"Victims and survivors suffered not just on April 15, 1989 in Sheffield, but for over two decades afterwards with the shameful slandering of their actions by people who abused their position and power.

"Speaking as someone whose family directly suffered, I know the pain and hurt will remain. However, I hope that today's report helps bring some comfort, now that everyone knows what happened on that day."

Gerrard has spent his entire professional career at Anfield.