• Premier League

Mancini happy to let Balotelli do his own thing

ESPN staff
March 4, 2011
Mario Balotelli was on target against Aston Villa © PA Photos
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Roberto Mancini has admitted he is finding it difficult to get through to Mario Balotelli, but is prepared to let it slide provided the striker keeps hitting the target for Manchester City.

Balotelli was a high-profile summer arrival at Eastlands and made a bright start to his City career with a goal on debut, but he has struggled since with injuries and talk of homesickness hanging over him.

However, he has found the net in his last two outings - in the draw with Fulham and win over Aston Villa - and Mancini is prepared to turn a blind eye to his striker's shortcomings.

"He is not listening to me," said Mancini. "I speak but I don't think he listens.

"It is not important that he doesn't listen to me. What is important is that he does well, that he scores."

Mancini is convinced Balotelli is only scratching the surface of his potential.

He said: "But I know he can do better because I know his quality. He can change every game if he wants. He could score in every game.

"I hope, for him and us, he can understand this very quickly."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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