Balotelli draws ire of Liverpool faithful after supporting Sterling

Mario Balotelli has drawn the ire of Liverpool supporters for posting a congratulatory message on Twitter to Raheem Sterling after his former team mate scored on his debut for Manchester City.

Sterling, who completed his Liverpool departure after signing a prolonged 49million pounds deal last week, had been on the receiving end of abuse from Anfield supporters over his contract dispute with the club.

"Well done @sterling31! Best answer. Keep it up," wrote Balotelli on Twitter after Sterling scored inside the first three minutes of a friendly tie against Roma.

However, the maverick Liverpool striker immediately tried to clarify his comments after receiving abusive replies from fans, the Guardian reported.

Balotelli tweeted, "Liverpool fans are amazing but i hope@sterling31 will play at his best because he deserve it. He's a good guy young and talented...

support him Like you always did. He gave everything to this club and respect it so i'm sad to see this. YNWA, Liverpool is a family ALWAYS."

City eventually won the game 5-4 on penalties after both teams were level 2-2 at full time.