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Balotelli substituted early during friendly

25th July 2011 - Berko Tau

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli was substituted early in one of the club's recent friendly football games.

The Italian was replaced against LA Galaxy after deciding to drag the ball back and attempt a back heel when he was clear on goal.

His ambitious effort sailed wide, much to the disapproval of his football manager Roberto Mancini.

Mancini said: "I hope this is a lesson. If you [Balotelli] are serious, you can play 90 minutes. If not, you can come and sit by me on the bench.

"In football you always need to be professional, always serious and in this moment he wasn't professional."

Balotelli needs to understand that his behaviour has to be good in every game he plays in, Mancini added.

The striker was signed for £24 million from Inter Milan last August, but his season was affected by injury and suspension.

In 28 appearances, Balotelli has scored 10 goals.