AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri hailed Mario Balotelli's influence for their 1-0 win over Chievo.

Riccardo Montolivo turned in the rebound after one of Balotelli's many free kicks was parried at the Bentegodi.

"Balotelli arrived in January and we didn't have anyone who could take free kicks so well," said the Coach.

"Montolivo did well on the goal, but today Balotelli found the target on every occasion from any distance or angle. He's a great talent and has improved in terms of his behaviour, as he was kicked a few times today and stayed quiet.

"Mario is playing with enthusiasm, he feels like a protagonist at Milan and I think he can do much more, as the quality is remarkable.

"Stephan El Shaarawy needs to relax, as he doesn't need to play for the goal at all times. In the second half he did very well, while he was too isolated on the left early on. The important thing is that the team plays well and wins."