Controversial striker set for Liverpool redemption under Klopp
Published:
Liverpool’s current injury crisis was clear to see as the Reds limped to a 2-2 draw with Exeter City in the FA Cup third round.
Jurgen Klopp had to rely on youngsters to assemble a makeshift team that saw Jose Enrique return to the starting lineup to fill in at centre back.
The Anfield physio room is the busiest in the Premier League, with 11 players out for the foreseeable future.
Jordan Ibe, Philippe Coutinho, Dejan Lovren, Mamadou Sakho, Jordan Henderson, Divock Origi, Martin Skrtel, Jordan Rossiter, Daniel Sturridge, Danny Ings and Joe Gomez make up those who are unavailable.
Tiago Ilori, Sheyi Ojo and Ryan Kent were all recalled from their loans to add some depth to the squad for the Exeter game and Klopp could be looking to bring back another loanee.
Mario Balotelli has been at AC Milan at the start of the season, but has spent the majority of that time out with a groin injury.
He’s now back to full fitness following surgery and the Reds are said to be looking into bringing him back.
Given his poor form during his first campaign as a Liverpool player, coupled with his lack of playing time since heading back to the San Siro, many will see this as a poor choice by Klopp.
However, the German manager is set to do a wise bit of business as he will be adding an experienced Premier League striker to his squad without having to worry about a transfer fee.
Over his entire English top-flight career, Balotelli has started 43 times and found the net on 21 occasions during that period.
The 25-year-old is clearly a talented player as proved by his inspirational performances for Italy during Euro 2012, where he scored the goals that got his nation into the final, and being able to call on him would be a huge boost for the Reds.
Christian Benteke is the only out-and-out striker currently fit that Liverpool have and he has been struggling for form: failing to score in his last three games.
A fresh Balotelli would provide a strong alternative and lessen the pressure on the Belgian international.
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