Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has jumped to the defence of goal-shy Mario Balotelli. Former Reds midfielder Paul Ince blames the Italian's disruptive influence for ruining the team spirit at Anfield and Ince called for Rodgers to sell the misfiring striker.

"There are lots of opinions about Liverpool and Paul is someone who I respect and was a wonderful player and has managed himself so he knows the pressures of management," said Rodgers. "Mario is here as a Liverpool player and as the coach and manager I need to work to maximise what I can get out of the player, but that is the same with every single player.

"While he is here at the club that is all I will concentrate on.

"I hear one or two bits and pieces about unrest - it is totally untrue of course. We are not happy we are not winning games."