Brendan Rodgers has described Mario Balotelli as a "big talent" ahead of Liverpool's pre-season match against AC Milan.

The Serie A side's striker had been linked with a return to the Premier League this summer following speculation that Arsenal were trying to sign him, but manager Arsene Wenger has dismissed the rumours.

The Liverpool manager told reporters: "Balotelli is a big talent. I saw that in this time at Inter Milan as a young player and obviously going to Manchester City when we had a real close eye on him there.

"He's got all the qualities. He's 6'3", he's quick, his touch is terrific and he can score goals. He went back to Italy to play and he's still so young.

"If his focus is right, his concentration is right and he leads the lifestyle of a top player then he can play for any team in the world."

The two clubs meet in America later today.