Adam Johnson is backing Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli to fill the void left by Carlos Tevez.

After victory at Blackburn, like all at the Etihad, Johnson was banned from mentioning the 'T' word. But he reckons Super Mario is the man to make up the shortfall in goals.

Three in his last three games suggest he might be right, too.

Johnson said: "Everyone knows what Mario's like but he's a goalscorer.

"He's a man who can get 20 goals a season if he plays as a central striker. He's a big lad, strong - he has all the attributes.

"It's just a case of putting it together week in, week out. He's close to doing that as well.

"You look at his stats and it just proves his goalscoring ability. If you give him a chance, he'll put it away."