Mario Balotelli pig: Liverpool striker's pet Super denied entry to the UK

Mario Balotelli is still waiting to be reunited with his pet pig Super, which is stranded in Italy because of government rules.

The maverick striker moved to Liverpool from AC Milan in August, but had to leave behind his treasured pet. Government rules mean he has to first register as a breeder, then get a certificate of health from an Italian vet before she is allowed to fly.

The Sun have reported that Balotelli is hoping to get the paperwork sorted soon.

So does this explain his relatively poor form since joining the Reds? He has scored just one goal in eight appearances for the club.

Balotelli had previously tweeted about the pet last year.

A source told The Sun: "He's bent the ear of the people in the office, everyone. The lads have got to hear about it and the swines are giving him loads.

"He just laughs it off and talks about what great pets pigs make."