Balotelli told to go for goals

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli has been challenged to stay amongst the goals against Everton.

The Italian finally opened his account for the season with a goal in the midweek victory over Wigan Athletic.

Roberto Mancini's side could go back to the top of the table, for a short while at least, if they extend their unbeaten home record to 37 games against the Toffees, with rivals United playing later at Reading.

It was David Moyes' side who last inflicted a league defeat on City at the Etihad Stadium, back in December 2010, although their chances of a repeat won't be helped if full-back Leighton Baines fails a late fitness test.

Former City favourite, Sylvain Distin, could be asked to shift from his central position to fill in at left-back.

Mancini has injury issues of his own with James Milner and Gael Clichy already ruled out, although Samir Nasri has now recovered from a bout of flu.

But the Italian is looking towards his fellow countryman, Balotelli, to again provide the fireworks in front of goal.

Mancini admits: "It was important for Mario because he scored his first goal at Wigan and it is important because it was an important goal in a difficult moment.

"Now, I hope Mario can continue to score goals like this because we need his goals."

City are 1.57 beat the Toffees at the Etihad Stadium and are 2.25 to keep a clean sheet, while Balotelli is 6.00 to open the scoring.

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