Mario Balotelli's message to Liverpool fans who held him back against Man Utd

Balotelli was already on a yellow card when a tussle with Smalling sent him tumbling into the advertising hoardings.

But as the Italian striker got to his feet to remonstrate with the defender, Reds fans helped the 24-year-old to restrain himself.

And now Balotelli has taken to social media to show his appreciation for the support.

Posting a picture of the incident on Facebook, Balotelli said: "Besides all efforts the game didn't go our way.

"But one thing was real clear: I wasn't alone on the pitch. YNWA"