Liverpool striker returns to training at Melwood
Mario Balotelli has said he still expects to win the Ballon D’or in his career.
The Italy international returned to Liverpool for pre-season on Saturday after spending a disappointing season on loan at former club AC Milan.
Balotelli signed for Liverpool two years ago in a £16million deal, but failed to make an impression after just four goals in 28 appearances.
Speaking to Corriere della Sera, the 25-year-old insisted that his poor form is merely a blip on the way to him being crowned the best player in the world.
“In my view there weren’t enough [expectations put on me], as I can do so much more than what I said. But it takes time,” said Balotelli.
“On the scale of 0 to 10, I stopped at five, but I’ll get to 10 eventually. I want to get there. I will win the Ballon d’Or.
“I do realise that I’ve spent two years of my career when I could’ve been getting closer to 10 and instead stayed at five.
“I know, the Ballon d’Or might seem laughable and I might not have done everything to be the best, but the important thing is I realised it’s not too late.”
In two years Balotelli has managed just seven goals in all competitions, but was in excellent form when he arrived at Liverpool originally after 18 goals in the 2013/14 season.
By Ben Kelly – @benkelly_10
