Liverpool manager, Brendan Rodgers has warned summer signing, Mario Balotelli that he will have to get used to being on the bench. The controversial Italian has failed to make a major impact since signing from AC Milan in a £16 million deal and is yet to score a league goal after 10 games.
“It’s something he would have to get used to. If the team is going to need him from the bench then it’s something he would have to become adjusted to,” Rodgers said. “It’s the same for every single player, not just him. When called upon, whether it’s to start a game or come off the bench, you ask your players to be ready.”
Rodgers – who favours a high pressing game – believes Balotelli is unsuited to his system as he lacks the worth ethic.
“We have seen it’s not really his game. Working with him for the period of time he’s been here we have seen that he’s probably someone who’s better in and around the box.
He added: “That level of intensity and pressing isn’t part of his game. But you try to get the best out of the players you have and the qualities they have. So that’s something we will focus on. The most important thing is he is now available and adds another player to the squad.”
These comments don’t bode well for ‘Super Mario’ who is already linked with a January move back to Italy as Sampdoria are reportedly interested in the Italian’s services.
