LIVERPOOL MANAGER BRENDAN Rodgers has expressed his irritation over constant questioning relating to Mario Balotelli.

He told reporters in his Thursday press conference when asked a flurry of questions relating to the Italy international and his poor form: “Is this the Mario Balotelli press conference?”

Regarding Balotelli’s decision to swap shirts with Pepe at half-time of Real Madrid’s 3-0 Champions League win at Anfield on Wednesday, Rodgers insists any action taken against the former Milan striker would be kept inside the club.

“Any action would be kept within ourselves,” he added.

“We’ve had a conversation. Case closed. It’s a part of the game and you have to accept it.

“I think the boy is trying very, very hard and long-term we will see how that works out for him. He is working hard to improve to score goals and boost his chances.

“As long as he is doing his best, I can’t ask for anymore. Whether that best is good enough long-term who knows. But that’s the same for any player.”

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