Liverpool's new signings Mario Balotelli (2nd R) and Adam Lallana (2nd L) watch their team during their English Premier League soccer match against Manchester City at the Etihad stadium in Manchester, northern England August 25, 2014.
Liverpool's new signings Mario Balotelli (2nd R) and Adam Lallana (2nd L) watch their team during their English Premier League soccer match against Manchester City at the Etihad stadium in Manchester, northern England August 25, 2014. REUTERS/Darren Staples

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard believes that recent signing Mario Balotelli will become an important fixture for the Reds this season.

The Italian international's quality is unquestioned, but problems arising from his attitude have been well-documented. Nevertheless, Gerrard has faith in the former Inter Milan man.

"I have been impressed when I've played against him, for England," he said.

"He only had cameos against us for Manchester City."

"But against Italy, for England, he was superb - his movement, touch and he got the winner. He was a real handful and difficult to manage because of his pace and movement."

"He has got an unbelievable shot with so much power. Hopefully he can bring that to Liverpool because if he does, he will certainly be a great tool for us and he'll help us."

"They are the type of players you need at Premier League and Champions League level."

The Merseysiders will be taking on Tottenham on Sunday, but it remains to be seen whether Balotelli will finally be fielded-in.

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