Balotelli Charged With Violent Conduct

The FA has charged Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli with violent conduct over suspected stamping incident during a home game against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

Balotelli, who has courted notoriety and controversy since his recent premiership arrival, was involved in an incident with Tottenham’s Scott Parker during Manchester City’s high drama 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium.

After swinging wildly for the ball, Balotelli, who had only just come off the bench, landed inches away from the sliding tackle of Parker. It appeared that on landing, Balotelli made a stamping attempt at Parker's face, although it was not picked up at the time by referee, Howard Webb.

Balotelli has until 6pm on Wednesday to respond to the charge. He faces a four match ban.

Team-mate of Balotell, Sergio Aguero, has jumped to the Italian striker's defence, saying he believes Mario’s portrayal in the media and his high profile sometimes worked against him.

"Firstly we all know what a fantastic player he is, but those of us who are really close to Mario know that off the field he's a really good lad,” said Aguero.

"Like a lot of players he has his own idiosyncrasies here and there, but the truth is he is a lovely lad. He's young lad, he takes care of himself and gets on with his own business. I'm a bit of a family guy - a home bird - and I like spending time with my wife and my son.

“I love my work and do my shift. That's what's important to me - going about my job for City, but like I say, the truth is Mario is a lovely lad."

Balotelli had scored the winning goal after winning a penalty in the dying moments of the game. He had struggled to make much of an impact until that point.

The striker could miss the Carling Cup semi-final and three league games for Manchester City due to the ban.

(DW/GK)