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MARIO BALOTELLI has been ruled out of Liverpool's Premier League clash with Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium tonight due to illness.

The Italian striker didn't travel with Brendan Rodgers' squad to Wales and has remained on Merseyside to recover.

Liverpool expect Balotelli to be available for Sunday's crunch showdown with Manchester United at Anfield.

It's another setback for the £16million striker in his battle to force his way into Rodgers' plans.

Balotelli was an unused substitute in the three previous league matches against Burnley, Manchester City and Southampton.

He hasn't featured in the Premier League since grabbing a late winner against Tottenham last month.

Daniel Sturridge is expected to lead the line against Swansea tonight as Liverpool look to maintain their push towards the Champions League spots.

Victory over Rodgers' former club would move the Reds back to within two points of fourth placed Manchester United.