Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has told Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli his country is counting on him.

After impressing at Euro 2012, Prandelli now wants the former Inter forward to become one of his side's leaders.

"The time has arrived for Balotelli to demonstrate that he has become a mature footballer," said Prandelli.

"I often joke with Mario that perhaps I'm the only person who can manage him, but maybe because we don't spend that much time together."