Manchester City coach David Platt praised Mario Balotelli after victory over Blackburn Rovers.

Balotelli opened the scoring as City ran out 3-0 winners in a one-sided contest at the Etihad Stadium to move five points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League.

Platt said: "I actually thought he was very disciplined in his performance and his work rate was exceptional both on and off the ball.

"His temperament was good. He can be pleased with his afternoon's work."

Platt was also pleased with the way Balotelli dealt with his treatment from the Blackburn defence.

He said: "When a team defends deep against you like that, and to open them up you have got to give the ball to people who are marked and closely guarded, there are going to be kicks like that.

"But you never once felt there was going to be any reaction."