Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has explained sickness as the reason behind the continued absence of Mario Balotelli from his squad.

Italian striker Balotelli last featured for the Reds in the 2-1 defeat against Manchester United at Anfield on March 22 and has been unable to get himself up for selection due to an illness.

"Mario is still ill," Rodgers said at the post-match press conference after his side beat Newcastle United 2-0 on Monday night.

"He wasn't quite fit enough for tonight but hopefully he'll train during the week."

A measured Rodgers added: "He's had on-and-off sickness issues."