Balotelli starts for City

Striker Mario Balotelli returned from a three-match absence to start for Manchester City in their Carling Cup first leg semi-final first leg at home to Liverpool.

The Italian – sent off in the 1-1 draw at Anfield in November – had not played since Boxing Day because of an ankle injury and was one of five changes from the side which beat the Reds 3-0 in the league eight days ago.