Prandelli expects Balotelli to behave
Mario Balotelli has been challenged by Italy coach Cesare Prandelli to make headlines for the right reasons at Euro 2012.
By ESPNSTAR.com staff
The Manchester City striker went through a turbulent season with his club but ended the season on a high, setting up the goal which eventually won his club the Premier League.
In spite of his contributions on the pitch, reports of his antics off it have plaqued him throughout the season and it represented something of a gamble for Prandelli to include him in the squad.
Prandelli however, told the Daily Mail that he expected the 21 year old to be on his best behaviour at Euro 2012.
'In my opinion, he has to see it as an extraordinary occasion for him as it is for the national side,' he said.
‘It is a time for him to be written about for what he does on the pitch and not what he has done off it.'
Prandelli further added that he was not expecting much success at the tournament but would work hard to restore pride to the country's football team after their debacle at the World Cup in 2010.
'We are not going to win Euro, but I like to say that the Italians know how to surprise,' said the 54-year-old
‘I would like to show that the team has at least worked well and which is arriving at this Euro knowing it is experiencing a unique moment with a smile on its lips.'
Italy have been drawn in Group C and begin the tournament against defending champions Spain on 10 June. The other 2 teams in the group are Croatia and Republic of Ireland.