Mario Balotelli handed Liverpool debut at Tottenham Hotspur

London: Mario Balotelli will make his Liverpool debut against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday after the controversial striker was named in the starting line-up at White Hart Lane.

Balotelli completed his £16 million ($26 million) switch from AC Milan on Monday and Reds manager Brendan Rodgers immediately brought the Italy international into his team following a disappointing 3-1 defeat at Manchester City in their last Premier League outing.

The 24-year-old, returning to the English top-flight 18 months after leaving following a troubled spell at Manchester City, will play alongside England forward Daniel Sturridge.

Balotelli`s appearance could be bad news for Tottenham, given he has scored on his debuts for City, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

"Mario Balotelli has settled in very well this week. He`s not right at the top of his fitness levels but he will be OK," Rodgers said.

"You find a way to fit your best players into the team. He`s flexible, he can play in a number of positions."