Liverpool players have reportedly become frustrated with their team manager Brendan Rodgers for favouritism towards goal-shy Mario Balotelli.
Liverpool players are angry that the Italian is in the team no matter how poorly he plays and they have even sent a senior star to see Rodgers about it. There is a feeling in the dressing room the boss has gone overboard with the striker, playing him until he breaks his duck in the Premier League.
The former Manchester City forward has scored just twice since his 16 million pounds move from AC Milan, once in the Champions League and once in the Capital One Cup, The Mirror reported.
Although his performances have improved lately, patience is wearing thin and a source close to the players said that there is a growing sense of frustration, adding that it seems no matter how badly Balotelli plays, he's in the team.
The source revealed that it's almost like the manager is trying to prove a point, playing Balotelli until he scores.
England stars Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana have been used sparingly while Balotelli gets the nod virtually every week.
Rodgers is not the first manager to stand accused of indulging Balotelli. Former City boss Roberto Mancini was often criticised for turning a blind eye to the Italian's indiscretions, the report added.