Striker wasn’t in the match-day squad for Chelsea game
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed the reason behind Mario Balotelli’s exclusion from the squad for the Chelsea game on Sunday, and insists it won’t effect his long-term future at Anfield.
No Balotelli
The controversial Italian wasn’t even named on the substitute bench for the game at Stamford Bridge and instead, youth striker Jerome Sinclair was called up by Rodgers.
Balotelli was brought in by Liverpool last Summer in a deal worth £16million from AC Milan, but after scoring just twice in the Premier League, he has been labelled as a flop and is expected to leave the club at the end of the season.
Failed Strike-Force
Rodgers has been heavily critical of his strike-force throughout the campaign and Balotelli has taken much of the stick after showing no enthusiasm for his new side.
Balotelli is known for his slow work-rate and lazy approach to football, and Rodgers believes it was only fair to give a hard-working youth a chance to sign against the Premier League winners.
Rodgers Reveals Decision
“(He’s) just not selected in the squad,” Rodgers told Sky Sports.
“We’ve got a young striker in Jerome Sinclair, who’s been doing fanatic in our youth and reserve teams.
“He’s scored a lot of goals and this is an opportunity for him to come in.
“He works tirelessly every day and Mario is just not in the squad.”
Potential Summer Sale
It’s expected that Balotelli will return to his homeland over the Summer if Liverpool can attract a bidder.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt – @AlexsArticles
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