Mario Balotelli delivered his apology yesterday with Italy more on his mind than Manchester City, it has been revealed.

The Daily Star sys the hotheaded Italian was forced to act in the wake of his sending-off madness against Arsenal on Sunday.

Hard-line national team boss Cesare Prandelli had warned the controversial Manchester City star that his place in the squad for the Euro finals this summer was in jeopardy if he did not say sorry.

And Balotelli promptly issued a statement through his agent, Mino Raiola.