Mario Balotelli Restrained by Liverpool Fans to Stop Him Going at Chris Smalling

Update, March 23: Mario Balotelli gave thanks to Liverpool fans for their actions on Facebook, saying: "One thing was real clear: I wasn't alone on the pitch. #YNWA"

Liverpool fans came to Mario Balotelli's rescue when the Italian looked set to retaliate against Chris Smalling during Manchester United's visit to Liverpool.

Smalling had clattered Balotelli into the hoardings, and the striker turned, reacting angrily. 

Quick-thinking fans in the front row could be seen holding Balotelli back to stop him from doing something rash.

"

Balotelli restrained by Liverpool fans. Follow the match against Man Utd live: http://t.co/yY5mD6dtAZ (Photo: Getty) pic.twitter.com/Qwr4rvD4pM

— Guardian sport (@guardian_sport) March 22, 2015"

Given they had already lost Steven Gerrard to a red card for stamping, that was just as well.

[Guardian Sport]