• Premier League

Balotelli unlikely to start at Old Trafford - Mancini

ESPN staff
February 11, 2011
Mario Balotelli has endured an interrupted season for Manchester City © PA Photos
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Roberto Mancini has revealed Mario Balotelli will only be fit enough for the bench if he is included in the matchday squad for Manchester City's trip to Old Trafford.

First-team coach David Platt had speculated that Balotelli may be fit enough to play a key part in the weekend derby at United, following the Italian's recovery from a knee injury.

Platt commented on Wednesday: "I would think it's certainly not a given that he'll only be on the bench against Man United."

However, Mancini was less positive during his pre-match press conference, insisting it is more important for Balotelli to be fit for the remainder of the season.

"I will decide if he can go on the bench. If he is not fit, maybe he will need another week," Mancini said.

"I have not been satisfied that he has been off for four weeks but he's had a problem with his knee. Hopefully he will always be able to play the last three months of the season."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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