Mancini: Balotelli must earn his place

Roberto Mancini is adamant Mario Balotelli is staying at Manchester City but has warned the striker he must win back a place in the side.

Balotelli has been the subject of persistent speculation linking him with AC Milan throughout this month's transfer window, but City boss Mancini has maintained that the controversial forward will not be leaving. Now Mancini has challenged his fellow Italian to battle back to form and justify his faith.

Mancini said: "First of all Mario should work well and try to get his place in the team. At the moment he doesn't have that, for many reasons. I hope he can help us to win some trophies because he has quality."

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