Balotelli back in Favre's thoughts

Posted Saturday, February 18, 2017 by Foxsports.com

Mario Balotelli is expected to return for Nice in their Ligue 1 clash with Lorient on Saturday after a "big kick up the backside" by coach Lucien Favre.

The Italian striker missed the 2-2 draw with Rennes last Sunday through illness, having been used a late substitute in the 1-0 win over Saint-Etienne the previous Wednesday.

He was natually disappointed not to have started, but after a storming start to his career in France, Balotelli's form has dipped in recent weeks.

But goalkeeper Yoan Cardinale says he has responded well to being benched and worked hard in training this week to force his way back into the side.

Speaking to ESPN, Cardinale said: "When he makes a mess of a shot in training, he insults himself, he gets annoyed, but that's what makes him strong. When he's not scoring, he doesn't stop.

"Like every player, there's competition for places and the coach makes his choices. He wasn't happy to be substitute, but I don't know any player that's happy to be on the bench.

"But it gave him a big kick up the backside, and this week he's been very good in training. He's met all the coach's expectations."

Balotelli's case for a starting spot has been made all the greater by the knee injury to Alassane Plea.