Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has discussed his decision to sign Mario Balotelli.
The Reds splashed out £16 million on the former AC Milan striker.
"It was a calculated risk, there's no doubt about that," Rodgers told talkSPORT. "The group we have here are very focused and work very hard.
"I've worked with kids who have been written off most of my life as a coach though. Some of the best players have flaws and issues.
"I didn't speak to many people about him because everyone will have an opinion on him. I don't decide until I meet with someone and work with them. I'm not going to judge someone [until then].
"When I spoke to him I realised he is a very clever boy. His talent speaks for itself.
"He's arrived here now at 24 years of age, wanting to show maturity in his life and his football. Since he's been here he's been absolutely fantastic.
"There's no doubt it is a risk, because of his previous. I felt it was a risk worth taking though. For £16million, he's a world class footballer and we'll see how it goes."
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