Juventus goalkeeper Gigi Buffon has hailed Italy teammate Mario Balotelli as a "pure talent".

The Manchester City striker is expected to start against Spain in the Euros.

"Mario is one of those pure talents who can let you win a match," said Buffon.

"He has always behaved diligently with us. He's 22 years old, so it's only right that in order to grow he must be allowed to make mistakes.

"The important thing is that he learns from that experience of getting it wrong.

"I think it's wonderful to be able to look back and realise I've been wearing the Italy shirt since 1997. The situation our football is going through right now certainly doesn't help us to focus, but for players with the experience many of us have, it can also be a good motivational tool."