Former Liverpool star Dietmar Hamann insists troubled striker Mario Balotelli needs 'support'

Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has insisted that striker Mario Balotelli needs 'support', if the Italian is to come good on the Merseyside.

Balotelli has endured a dismal time since moving to Anfield in 2014, and drew another blank against Hull City on Saturday.

Even his poor performance in the 3-0 defeat against Real Madrid in the Champions League, as well as his shirt swapping controversy with Pepe, have earned him wide spread criticism, The Mirror reported.

Former Liverpool legends Phil Thompson, Jamie Carragher and Graeme Souness were at a 'loss of words' to explain Balotelli's current predicament.

Hamann, another Liverpool legend, believes that there is nothing to be gained from continually criticising Balotelli.

He revealed that he feels a 'bit sorry' for Balotelli, adding that he thinks the striker is 'lost', and also said that Balotelli needs help and support from all quarters. 

Hamann said that Liverpool are in danger of losing Balotelli, if things stand as they are currently. He also stated that it is hard for fans to accept that Balotelli cannot deliver everytime he steps out on field.

He concluded by saying that despite Balotelli not playing well, about the way he is being subject to current criticism.