Italy coach Giampiero Ventura admits Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli is at a career crossroads.

Ventura was asked whether his stance on Super Mario would be different to predecessor Antonio Conte.

“He's exactly the same as everyone else," Ventura replied calmly.

“He has to A) play and B) be professional. He's talked about a lot, from the point of view of character he may leave something to be desired.

“When you consider the fact he didn't play at Milan, that Liverpool have abandoned him, it's clear that he's at a crossroads.

“Whenever Balotelli has shown that he wants to be a footballer, he has shown absolute quality. There's no prejudice, but it comes down to what happens on the pitch."