Mario Balotelli posts video for school children encouraging them to 'study hard and play harder'

Liverpool striker puts good luck message on Instagram

Mario Balotelli posted this picture on his Instagram account today (http://instagram.com/mb459)

Mario Balotelli has taken to Instagram to wish children returning to school from their summer holidays good luck.

The Liverpool striker posted a video and message on the social networking site, comparing the start of school to that of the new football season.

"Hi kids, today starts school in most countries," wrote the Liverpool striker. "It's like the beginning of the season in football. It's therefore time to start giving Your best as this helps shape your future. Good luck!"

It is not the first time Balotelli has offered his help to children. During his time at Manchester City he reportedly returned a truant to school where he then confronted a bully.

The striker himself could be forgiven for feeling that dread that comes with starting at a new school owing to his summer switch from AC Milan to Liverpool.

The Italy international moved to the Anfield club in a £16m deal and made his debut in the recent 3-0 win over Tottenham.

His return to England is expected to bring with it entertainment and possibly trouble, both on and off the pitch. Last week it emerged that the striker had been substituted early during a behind-closed-doors friendly after a rash challenge and subsequent altercation with referee Chris Foy.

In the accompanying video, Balotelli tells kids to "study hard and play harder. I wish all children good luck for your first day of school".

His new manager, Brendan Rodgers, will be hoping Balotelli can follow some of his own advise.