Brendan Rodgers demands more from Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli

Rodgers gave his full backing to striker Balotelli over the penalty furore which blew up in the 1-0 win over Besiktas in the Europa League at Anfield on Thursday night.

He supported the Italy international stepping in front of Jordan Henderson, captain on the night and designated pre-match taker, even if it looked unseemly at the time.

But when it came to Balotelli's overall effort during his substitute appearance, the Reds boss was unimpressed.