• Premier League

Mancini warns Balotelli to watch for wind-ups

ESPN staff
December 2, 2011
Mario Balotelli has been told to improve his disciplinary record © PA Photos
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Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has warned forward Mario Balotelli that opposing teams will target him from now on, believing he is susceptible to losing his cool and being sent off.

The ever-controversial Italian was shown a red card for two quick-fire offences after coming on as a second half substitute in last weekend's defeat against Liverpool, the third dismissal of his 18-month career at the Etihad Stadium.

And Mancini was warned the 21-year-old that he needs to be more careful, and recognise when players are trying to goad him to spark a reaction.

"I think some players think they can wind him up," Mancini said. "Mario should pay attention and be clever. We can't do anything because he is the one on the pitch, so he should pay attention and think only about football.

"We always try to keep him level [headed], but during a game it's difficult. He should pay attention and not take any risks."

Mancini believes the former Inter Milan forward has matured in recent times - despite still managing to hit the headlines for unlikely reasons - but insists his disciplinary record is unacceptable.

"Mario is more mature now, that's clear," he said. "But it's important he understands we need him as a player on the pitch. It's impossible - I took three red cards in 20 years and Mario has had three in two weeks!

"Mario has improved a lot and has played very well in the last three months. He's an important player for us and I want him to continue to improve."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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