After his performance against Manchester United, Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli could earn a rare start tonight against Roma.

"It is possible," mused Inter coach Jose Mourinho. "Balotelli and [Amantino] Mancini are important options and I can play in a different way, as you never know quite how Roma are going to approach it.

"I really like the way Mario is playing at the moment, the way he works in training and on the field. He has a good chance of starting."

Balotelli was a substitute in the Champions League and had a head-to-head with Cristiano Ronaldo, but in Jose's eyes that only added to his fine form.

"I don't understand the criticism on Balotelli's gesture. On the field there is no difference in age or titles. Everyone is the same. I don't see why he couldn't criticise the behaviour of an opponent without offending someone. I like the fact Mario respects nobody, it shows he has character."