Football
PA Sport 9y

Brendan Rodgers warns Mario Balotelli he must get used to bench role

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli returns from suspension with a warning he may have to get used to life on the bench at Anfield.

The Italy international has scored just twice in 15 appearances since his 16 million pound summer move from AC Milan but has yet to find the net in the Premier League.

With the injured Daniel Sturridge not set to return from a thigh injury for a few weeks, Raheem Sterling has been pressed into action as a central forward and although Balotelli is available again after a ban for posting a racist and anti-semitic image on social media, the best he can hope for is a place on the bench at Burnley on Boxing Day.

"It is something he will have to (get used to),'' said Rodgers "If the team needs him from the bench then it is something he will need to become adjusted to -- that is the same for every single player, not just him.

"When called upon, whether starting or off the bench, you ask your players to be ready.''

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