Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini left out Mario Balotelli for their 3-1 win at Newcastle United.

Balotelli was conspicuous by his absence on Tyneside having been left behind following his less than impressive display against Manchester United.

Mancini said: "He is not in good form at this moment and it was better for him that he continued to train and to train well. When he is in form, he will play.

"His form is not good - it's not good to play."