Italy and Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has been described as a gamble that didn’t pay off, according to former striker Michael Owen.
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The troubled forward was bought by the Anfield side to replace Uruguay striker Luis Suarez after he joined Barcelona for £65 million.
Owen believes bringing Balotelli to the club was always going to be a massive gamble, and it clearly shows that it was a poor bit of business.
"It is a gamble and a lot of people said they didn't really think it was good business," Owen told the Daily Star.
"But there were plenty of people saying at £16m there was a bit of value.
"And let's get it right, Brendan Rodgers knew it was a risk, he wasn't really sure about him, there just wasn't anyone else.
"Divock Origi, they've signed but couldn't get him until the end of this coming season.
"He knew it was a risk and he is a very good player."
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The Italian has made 25 appearances for Liverpool this season and has only managed to score four goals so far.
Where can you see Mario Balotelli going to next? Have your say in the comments section below.
