Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini was happy to hand Mario Balotelli another start in yesterday's 2-1 victory over Cagliari.

He said: "Mario has great quality and has been part of this squad for a long time. Last week I replaced him because the referee was picking on him.

"I think he should thank his teammates, like Hernan Crespo and Julio Cruz, who are helping him to grow even if he often plays in their place."