Mario: I’m no scapegoat

Mario Balotelli is refusing to be the scapegoat for Italy’s World Cup failure in Brazil and lashed out at fans that questioned his commitment.

The Azzurri, champions in 2006, were sent packing from the competition for the second time in a row in the group stage after a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay.

Balotelli started against the Uruguayans but was substituted at half-time by coach Cesare Prandelli.