Pepe v Mario Balotelli
Balotelli, for all the dross that’s often been reported on him, has not started Liverpool life as well as he or we hoped. He is however, a big game player – and has proven that on occasions for Manchester City, AC Milan and the Italian national team. If he uses his unbelievable frame and strength to bully Pepe, the Portuguese is known to lose his temper. Balotelli hasn’t fought for lost causes this season, and doesn’t challenge for balls in the air – which seems implausible given his 6 ft. 2″ stature. He’ll need to do so this evening, as his ability to holdup the ball without many players around him may well be our best chance of keeping any proper possession.
