Liverpool’s Balotelli To Return On Boxing Day

Mario Balotelli is set to return to the Liverpool squad for the Boxing Day trip to Burnley, according to manager Brendan Rodgers.

Hamstring injury and a one-match ban over Instagram post has seen the Italy international make just an appearance (as a second-half substitute against Manchester United) since the ‘Reds’ 2-1 home loss to Chelsea.

“[Mario] becomes available, but there’s no-one else [back] – Joe Allen, Glen Johnson and Jon Flanagan are still out,” said the northern Irish boss in his pre-game media briefing.

Mario Balotelli Has Featured Only Once for Liverpool Since November 8. Image: LFC via Getty.
Mario Balotelli Has Featured Only Once for Liverpool Since November 8. Image: LFC via Getty.

“The most important thing is Mario is available after his ban. It adds another player to our squad and another player who is available, especially with Fabio Borini unavailable [due to suspension].”