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Gerrard believes in strike duo

Cape Town - Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has confidence that both Mario Balotelli and Daniel Sturridge can find their finest performance levels to help the Reds flourish in pursuit of their ambitions this season.

Balotelli required just seven minutes to knock home his second goal for the club on Tuesday evening, having entered the Capital One Cup tie against Swansea City as a late substitute.

Darting into the penalty area, the Italian was the grateful recipient of a sublime cross by compatriot Fabio Borini, prodding in a first-time finish at the Kop end to level the score with the Welsh side.

His conversion paved the way for fellow summer signing Dejan Lovren to power in a stoppage-time header at the back post and book a berth in the quarter-finals of the competition.

Always cited by teammates as a guiding presence around Melwood, Gerrard will continue to provide helpful support that can accompany the extra work undertaken each day by Balotelli.

"Mario has the ability to turn it around," the midfielder toldlfc.com.

"I am not going to judge him after 10 games. I have to help and support him.

"To be a main striker at Liverpool you have to expect the pressure and the responsibility and embrace it. Our fans expect us to win every game.

"You have to accept and embrace it and enjoy the pressure and the fact you are being judged. That's what I have learnt to do since I was 19. He's a big lad. He's played for big clubs and has had the responsibility before.

"He's not feeling sorry for himself. He is working hard, doing extra shooting sessions and doing everything he can to make it work. I've been impressed with the way he goes about his work."
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