Former Liverpool star Michael Owen has claimed that Mario Balotelli is 'not the answer' to the club's problems this season, despite the striker ending his goalless run last night.

The Italy international scored against Swansea City in the League Cup to set up a late comeback, finding the net for the second time in the colours of his new team.

However, Balotelli has still yet to score in the Premier League following his £16m move from AC Milan, and Owen believes that the Reds may need to look elsewhere to solve their current plight.

"I said it was harsh to make Balotelli the scapegoat," he tweeted following Liverpool's victory. "Still don't think he's the answer though. Big result tonight."

The Anfield outfit are currently seventh in the league table.