James Milner says Mario Balotelli is a great character to have around Manchester City.

The midfielder believes the 21-year-old can take the pressure off the rest of the squad.

Milner said: "Mario is good to have around the place. He scores important goals and hopefully can score a few more winners between now and the end of the season.

"Is it a welcome distraction? Maybe, as long as it is at the right time. You can always rely on Mario to set some fireworks off to get the headlines.

"He is just very confident in his own ability. He has lots of that. He is fun to have around the place.

"I don't think I have done an interview this season without being asked about him. It sums up what a character he is."