Brendan Rodgers suggests Mario Balotelli was substituted in Liverpool's loss to Hull City due to injury.

The Italian striker has battled for form and fitness in his debut campaign with the Reds and on Tuesday night at the KC Stadium, he put in another unimpressive display, before being replaced by Rickie Lambert in the 65th minute as his side lost 1-0 to the Tigers.

After the match, Rodgers denied that Balotelli had been hooked for underperforming but did indicate that perhaps the 'struggling' former Manchester City and AC Milan man was now playing for his future at Anfield along with a number of other players.

"Mario is doing his best - he's come off tonight with a foot injury," said Rodgers.

"I think it's clear over the course of the season, not just in this game, that he's struggling.

"But Mario has got a few years left on his contract and it is fair to say that every single player here is playing for his future."