Brendan Rodgers: 'Mario Balotelli still working hard'

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that Mario Balotelli is continuing to work hard following his difficult start to the season.

The Italian striker has come under intense criticism in recent weeks thanks to a return of just two goals in 13 games since his summer move from AC Milan.

Despite doubts over whether he is the right man to lead Liverpool's attack, Rodgers has backed the 24-year-old to make his mark.

"Mario is working very hard and like we ask of all our players he is doing his very best. He is doing that," he told reporters ahead of Tuesday night's trip to Real Madrid in the Champions League.

"He hasn't got the goals that he would have liked and we would, but in terms of him adapting to what we're doing and working hard, he is doing that. He just needs to focus on continuing to give his very best for the football club."

Liverpool head into their match with Madrid on the back of a 1-0 defeat away to Newcastle United in the Premier League.