A photo posted by Mario Balotelli???????? (@mb459) on
The £16million striker was left behind at home as the Reds booked their place in the semi-finals with a 1-0 victory.
BT Sport pundit and former Blackburn star Robbie Savage tore into Balotelli over his absence when he said: "Pathetic isn't it? You're going to miss an FA Cup quarter-final?
"I don't know how unwell he is, but to miss an FA Cup quarter-final when you're feeling a bit ill?
Pathetic isn't it? You're going to miss an FA Cup quarter-final?
Robbie Savage
"Nonsense. I would have to be really, really ill to miss that game."
But Balotelli took to Instagram to post a picture of himself holding a thermometer with a reading of 38.7C - 1.7C above 'normal' body temperature.
Accompanying the image was a caption that read: "@phil.coutinho magic boy! Grande! Nothing stop me to watch my team winnin. ( at least this time you know the real reason why I am out) .
GETTY
Mario Balotelli missed Liverpool's win through illness
"MISS THE PICTH SO MUCH... #unluckyseason #YNWA #illbeback."
Balotelli was also forced to pull out of last weekend's 4-1 defeat to Arsenal after picking up a knock in training.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy