Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli took to social media to congratulate former team-mate Raheem Sterling after the England international scored on his Manchester City debut.

However, coming after the 20 year old's acrimonious departure from the Reds, the Italian's comments were not well received with the Liverpool faithful.

Balotelli, who himself has been linked with a move away from Anfield, praised Sterling for coming up with the 'best answer' to the critics.

He added: "Liverpool fans are amazing but I hope Sterling will play at his best because he deserves it. He is a good guy young and talented. Support him Like you always did. He gave everything to this club and respect it so I'm sad to see this. YNWA ,Liverpool is a family ALWAYS."

But Reds fans were unimpressed with the Italy international and was branded 'unreal' by one fan on Twitter while a host of others ordered his departure.