If any Liverpool fans were looking forward to seeing Mario Balotelli making an appearance against Bournemouth tonight, then we'd suggest they think again. Amidst rumours that Mario Balotelli is refusing to leave Liverpool, Brendan Rodgers has made it fairly clear that the Italian has absolutely no place in his plans.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Liverpool manager was asked about Balotelli's situation and, although he was trying to be a bit coy, he left everyone in no doubt about his feelings on the matter.
He clearly knows his situation and where he’s at. There’s nothing to add. All of the players understand where they’re at.
My job is to create the best possible environment for the team to succeed. That’s what I’ve always done. So I’m not going to speak about Mario when I can speak about another 25 players.
Balotelli is currently training away from the Liverpool first team as rumours swirl that he is resisting a loan move to Serie A. The former AC Milan forward is due a six figure 'loyalty bonus' if he's still at Anfield at the end of the transfer window, a situation which feeds interestingly into Jose Enrique's claims that Rodgers is treating his unwanted squad members very harshly.
That claim was also put to the Liverpool manager and it's fair to say he had no time to deal with his left back's whinging.
I’ll always treat individuals with respect and try to make sure they understand the situation, where they’re at. It’s then their choice.
If the manager and the club give a player a situation, if they really want to play I’m sure they’ll find a solution. If they don’t, then at least they know where they stand.
In other words, 'get out or don't play' is the message to Enrique and Balotelli. Which is all well and good except for the fact that they could easily take the second option and Liverpool will be left with some hefty wages for reserve players this season.
