Brendan Rodgers: 'Fatherhood will tame Mario Balotelli'

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers believes that fatherhood will help curb Mario Balotelli's eccentric behaviour.

Balotelli's £16m move to Anfield was confirmed on Monday afternoon, and the controversial Italy international arrives at Anfield with a reputation for mischief.

However, Rodgers thinks that his new striker will have grown up following the birth of his son at the end of 2012.

Rodgers told Sky Sports News: "He's 24 years of age and he's become a father now, so he knows he has a responsibility not only for himself, but also for this great club.

"We'll treat him no different, there's a lot of hype that goes around Mario, but for us, he's a part of our team and we'll look to develop that side of his game.

"He's obviously a world-class talent and it's been difficult for him at other clubs, but as I said, I've done this all my life. I've taken players that have been written off throughout my career. There's no doubt that there's a risk involved, but it's a calculated one."

Liverpool were beaten 3-1 by Manchester City on Monday evening.