AFC Wimbledon striker and Liverpool fan Adebayo Akinfenwa has still not given up on Mario Balotelli and believes that Italian striker will be a hit at Anfield.
Balotelli has come under heavy criticism since his summer move to Anfield, having only scored once since his return to England’s top flight from 34 attempts at goal.
Boyhood Liverpool fan, Akinfenwa told Hattrick: “I think it has been tough for Balotelli to come to Liverpool. I think that Balotelli has got a style of play and I think Liverpool has a different style of play.
“Brendan Rodgers knew how Balotelli plays and you are asking him to play a different way, and as a footballer a manager should do their research to play with somebody strength, don’t try to focus his weaknesses. I think it is the reason why it has been difficult but it takes time.”
Akinfenwa also expressed his desire for Balotelli to stay at Anfield.
“I hope he stays,” he continued. “I want him to stay because I think he is a good person, football needs characters like him so I hope he becomes a success and I am glad he scored recently to get off the mark. I just think it’s been tough and he didn’t realize how tough it would be.
“But he is a professional, he’s been at all the top clubs in the world so he will get through it and I am sure it will be a success.”
