Flu rules Mario out of Italy qualifier

Mario Balotelli will miss Italy’s World Cup qualifier with Armenia tonight after failing to recover from the flu, the FIGC announced on their official website this morning.

Balotelli, who missed his side’s opening two Group B encounters due to his decision to undergo laser eye surgery in the last international break, was set to lead the line at the Hrazdan Stadium alongside Pablo Osvaldo after head coach Cesare Prandelli announced his starting line-up yesterday.

But now Juventus forward Sebastian Giovinco will replace the Manchester City striker, who is expected to be available for Italy’s next assignment against Denmark on Tuesday.