Akinfenwa backs Balotelli to be a "success" at Liverpool

Mario Balotelli has endured a tough Premier League come back, but AFC Wimbledon striker Adebayo Akinfenwa believes that he will be a "success" at Liverpool.

Image source : FFC.com

The Italian joined the Reds from AC Milan last summer in a £16m deal, with replacing sold striker Luis Suarez his major aim according to reports.

However, 'Balo' has appeared out of his depth back in England - he had played for Machester City before- and has been linked with a move away from the club this summer amied suggetions manager Brendan Rodgers has lost faith in him.

But Akinfenwa - a cult hero of the modern game thanks to his physical stature- believes that Balotelli will come good for Liverpool, the team he supports, if given time.

"I think it has been tough for Balotelli to come to Liverpool. I think that Balotelli has got a style of play and I think Liverpool has a different style of play." He is quoted by the London Evening Standard.

"Brendan Rodgers knew how Balotelli plays and you are asking him to play a different way, and as a footballer a manager should do their research to play with somebody strength, don't try to focus his weaknesses. I think it is the reason why it has been difficult but it takes time.

"I hope he stays, I want him to stay because I think he is a good person, football needs characters like him so I hope he becomes a success and I am glad he scored recently to get off the mark. I just think it's been tough and he didn't realise how tough it would be.

"But he is a proffessional, he's been at all the top clubs in the world so he will get through it and I am sure it will be a success."