Mario Balotelli substituted in Liverpool friendly win against Wolves after getting a talking to from referee Chris Foy

• Liverpool beat Wolves 1-0 in a friendly at Melwood on Friday
• Mario Balotelli was taken off after a strong challenge and a talk with Premier League referee Chris Foy
• The Italian appeared to be held back by team-mate Kolo Toure at one point
• Brendan Rodgers joked that the 24-year-old would bring 'trouble' to Anfield after signing him from AC Milan for £16million in August
• Adam Lallana scored the only goal as he continues his return to fitness 

Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli was taken off in a behind closed doors friendly with Wolves after a heated conversation with referee Chris Foy.

The 24-year-old, who moved to Anfield from AC Milan in a £16million deal last month, appeared to be held back by Kolo Toure as Foy attempted to talk to him during the game at Melwood.

Sportsmail understands the Italian was involved in a robust 50-50 challenge with a Wolves player. No altercation took place and Balotelli was substituted soon after.

VIDEO Scroll down to watch Brendan Rodgers: This isn't the Mario Balotelli show 

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Trouble: Liverpool forward Mario Balotelli talks with referee Chris Foy during a friendly with Wolves

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Not happy: Kolo Toure (left) holds Balotelli back after the Italian was involved in a robust 50-50 challenge

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You're off! Balotelli walks towards the touchline after being immediately substituted following the incident

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Heading home: Balotelli leaves Liverpool's training ground after being taken off prematurely