Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci admits Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli could be invaluable against England on Sunday.

Juventus stopper Bonucci says Balotelli's experience in the Premier League is helping preparations for the quarterfinals clash.

Bonucci said: "Physically and technically, he can be very dangerous to the England team.

"I don't know yet if he can be in the starting line-up because this is our manager's decision.

"But, if he trains in the proper way, I think he can really be useful to beat England."

The Manchester City forward also has a unique insight to England's team, all of whom he has played either alongside or against.

"In terms of Balotelli's information, of course he knows them very well," said Bonucci, who insisted the 21-year-old was gelling with his Italy team-mates.

"(On Wednesday), for example, he was smiling, he was joking with [Antonio] Di Natale. This is our team spirit.

"Balotelli, when he plays as he played against Ireland, he really can make the difference."