Misfit Mario ‘doing his best’

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admits Mario Balotelli has plenty of work to do to prove he is good enough to be at the club, with the Italian star’s future at the club again plunged into doubt.

The Reds boss believes it will be difficult for the Italy international to achieve his potential if he cannot find a way to adapt his individuality into the team ethos.

Balotelli has become something of a scapegoat for the Reds’ problems on the pitch, with not only his return of one goal in 10 appearances since a £16 million (€20m) summer move from AC Milan being blamed, but the manner of his performances.