'Consistency unlocks Mario's potential'
Finding an extended level of consistency is the key to unlocking Mario Balotelli's natural potential, believes Brendan Rodgers, who will work with the Italian striker to achieve that objective.
The 24-year-old was the manager's final new recruit of a busy summer transfer window, bolstering the attacking options available to Liverpool with his power, skill and goalscoring credentials.
Five appearances for the club to date have brought one conversion - a fine touch and finish that broke the deadlock against Ludogorets Razgrad in the Champions League at Anfield.
Now the challenge for Rodgers and Balotelli himself is to ensure that the No.45 can produce such moments of brilliance on a regular basis, building on the experience he already has.
"I think Mario is potentially world-class," the Northern Irishman commented ahead of what should be the forward's first taste of a Merseyside derby on Saturday.
"World-class is about being at the highest level consistently, being at that level in your game consistently. That's what takes you there.
"Mario is coming in as an international striker and he has the experience. He's got a lot of experience for 24, so for him it is about being quality consistently. That is what can elevate him to that level."