Toure stands up for Balotelli

Striker Mario Balotelli can still make his critics eat their words, that's the verdict of Manchester City team-mate Yaya Toure.

The Italian is again in the doghouse with both fans and pundits, following his insipid display during the 3-2 derby defeat to rivals Manchester United last weekend.

Blues boss Roberto Mancini has again warned the controversial 22-year-old that he risks wasting his career if he does not apply himself correctly over the coming years.

Balotelli is likely to make way this weekend for Carlos Tevez when City travel to take on Newcastle United at St James' Park, with the Citizens 4/6 to secure a victory and 7/1 to repeat their 2-0 success of last season.

Tevez made a significant impact when he came on for Balotelli against United, but Toure insists it would be foolish to write the replaced player off just yet.

The midfield powerhouse said: "Mario is an unbelievable player, but sometimes he can be angry with himself. All players need to improve and I talk all the time with Mario.

"This year especially he has been working hard in training and improving well, but sometimes in the game you can get so disappointed when you lose small things.

"But he is a fantastic character and I know he will be one of the top strikers in the Premier League."

Balotelli, who has netted just once in the Premier League this term, is 150/1 to be the top-flight's leading scorer this season.

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