Brendan Rodgers has refused to give Mario Balotelli any assurances about his Liverpool future, saying it is up to the player whether he stays at Anfield.
The Italy striker, who fell foul of Liverpool fans on Twitter on Tuesday after he sent a message of support to Raheem Sterling, was not included in the squad for the club’s pre-season tour.
Liverpool will not stand in Balotelli’s way if he wants to leave but despite there being reported interest from clubs in Italy — Sampdoria has been the strongest link — they have not received a concrete offer.
Given Rodgers has overhauled Liverpool’s forward line, with the signings of Roberto Firmino and Christian Benteke, there would appear little hope of Balotelli starting games in the Premier League next season.
Balotelli was yesterday described as a ‘bad influence’ by Liverpool legend Steve McMahon, and although Rodgers has not gone as far as saying he has no future at the club, he made it clear it is up to the former AC Milan and Manchester City striker to decide.
‘Mario is working hard and training well with a number of other players at Melwood,’ said Rodgers, who is interested in Paris Saint-Germain left back Lucas Digne. ‘I’m not sure whether he has a future, that will entirely be up to Mario. He is working hard to get fit. We will see when the season begins.’
Benteke’s £32.5m arrival at Anfield was confirmed last night and the 24-year-old striker said: ‘I’ve come here to win trophies and reach some great goals with the team.’
Liverpool, who have won their three friendly games so far, conclude their tour here tomorrow with a game against a Malaysian XI and Rodgers is hopeful of a better league campaign.
Rodgers said: ‘The quality and mentality of the player is important. I have an inherent belief that the players we have brought in will help us push on this season.’ – Daily Mail