Mancini says Italy can’t afford to leave Balotelli at home

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini believes that striker Mario Balotelli should be leading theattack for Italy at Euro 2012.

The City forward was controversially overlooked by coach Cesare Prandelli for this week’s international friendly against the United States — a decision which attracted more criticism when the Azzurri were beaten.

Prandelli publicly cited the 21-year-old’s indiscipline as his reason for the omission and Mancini, who has had words with the player about the same subject, agreed Balotelli “should improve his behaviour.”

But Mancini, himself a former Italy striker, does not think Prandelli could have anyone better to spearhead the challenge in Poland and Ukraine this summer than the enigmatic Balotelli.

Mancini said: “Mario is the best striker in Italy, there is not another striker in Italy better than him.

“I don’t think Italy can leave him at home — I don’t think Prandelli can do this.

“For me, there are few players in Europe like Mario, with his talent.”

Balotelli only returned to Barclays Premier League action last week after a four-match domestic ban for stamping on Tottenham’s Scott Parker in January.

The forward impressed with a disciplined and goalscoring performance in the leaders’ win over Blackburn and Mancini now hopes this latest jolt will further focus his mind for the months ahead.

Mancini said: “In my opinion, he was upset. It was not my decision, it was Prandelli’s decision and he has his reasons.

“I think we should arrive at the point where Mario only plays football.

“In this moment I trust him, he is a good guy. Maybe he can make some mistakes but I trust him.”

Balotelli will again compete for a starting spot with Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko as City look to increase their lead at the top to five points against Bolton at the Etihad Stadium today .

The trio, who all struck against Blackburn, have scored 52 goals between them in all competitions this season.

Yet in the coming weeks they may all face a further fight for their places as former captain Carlos Tevez strives for match fitness.

The Argentinian is back in training following the closure of his dispute with the club and Mancini believes he is another fortnight away from match fitness.

Mancini does not think the continuing publicity surrounding Tevez will detract from the title challenge.

He said: “We can’t think this. If Carlo finds his form in two or three weeks, I think he will be ready for us in the last six or seven games.”