Former Manchester City and Arsenal star Rodney Marsh has told City fans: Don't you dare compare me with Mario Balotelli!
Marsh was signed by Manchester City for a then club record £200,000 in 1972 by Malcolm Allison and blamed for losing the title because his flamboyant style didn't suit the team.
Balotelli is regarded as possessing the same explosive talent as 'Hot Rod' although his record of two sendings off and eight bookings have put his City career on the line.
Marsh told the Daily Star Sunday: "Yes, there have been some people comparing Balotelli to me. I had this conversation last Monday evening at a supporters' club meeting.
"A few fans there compared Balotelli's signing to mine but that's nonsense.
"I don't want to be associated with Mario Balotelli. I've loved football from the day I was old enough to kick a ball and always played with a smile.
"But just look at Balotelli. You never see him smile or look like he's enjoying himself. He's always arguing with his team-mates and his manager.
"Maybe Mancini needs to tell him that he's loved - he needs to lighten up, he looks like a bulldog chewing a wasp."
