Mario Balotelli set the tone for his dismal time at Liverpool from day one, it is claimed.

The Daily Mail says say his poor attitude was evident in one of his first training sessions under then-manager Brendan Rodgers.

Rodgers reportedly asked Balotelli to take his position during a drill at Melwood in which the Italian was expected to help defend a corner.

And the former Manchester City forward is said to have replied with a simple: “No."

When Rodgers asked him to explain his response, Balotelli continued: “I don't come back for corners. I'm a striker."

Players and staff who witnessed the incident are said to have been stunned by the exchange, which apparently set the tone for his entire Liverpool career.

Balotelli left Liverpool for Nice last week.