Liverpool manager Rodgers says Balotelli has to accept bench role

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will once again have striker Mario Balotelli at his disposal Friday against Burnley, but has warned the Italian that he may have to accept a spot on the bench.

Balotelli, who returns from a one-match ban after posting an anti-Semitic message on his Instagram account, has found the net just twice in 15 matches with the Reds this season.

Despite the continued absence of Daniel Sturridge and Rodgers's decision to play Raheem Sterling out of position at the top of the attack, the manager says Balotelli will need to adjust to life as a substitute if he is left on the bench for an extended period.

"It is something he will have to (get used to),'' Rodgers said, according to ESPN FC. "If the team needs him from the bench then it is something he will need to become adjusted to - that is the same for every single player, not just him.

"When called upon, whether starting or off the bench, you ask your players to be ready.''