Mario Balotelli still waiting for pet pig 'Super' to join him in England

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has found his return to England somewhat of a struggle in the early stages, having scored just once since making the move to Anfield from AC Milan.

While the actual reason likely has more to do with the Reds' inability to craft legitimate chances since losing Daniel Sturridge to injury, a far more enticing theory is emerging in the British press, and it has to do with a pig named 'Super.'

Balotelli, Liverpool's marquee summer signing, has been unable to transport his beloved pet – who he purchased while with AC Milan – with him to England due to government restrictions on the import of animals into the country.

Before the spotted swine can join the striker, Balotelli needs to follow the appropriate protocol:

• Register himself as a breeder of pigs with the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
• Receive a valid certificate of health from an Italian vet confirming that the pig will not bring any diseases or infections into the UK.

Balotelli has tried everything to get Super into the country, but to no avail, according to The Sun (paywall).

"(Balotelli's) transfer from Milan took less time (than getting the pig to Britain)," a source told the paper.

"He's bent the ear of the people in the office, everyone. The lads have got to hear about it and the swines are giving him loads.

"He just laughs it off and talks about what great pets pigs are."

Assuming Balotelli is reunited with his pet in the near future, the stories will write themselves if he starts finding the net.

- Quotes courtesy of The Daily Mail