Mancini would punch team-mate Balotelli

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini claims he might have punched striker Mario Balotelli had the pair been team-mates.

The City boss remains determined to get the best out of the controversial 21-year-old - who walked away unhurt from a car crash on Thursday afternoon - but admits he could see why team-mates could be infuriated by him.

Mancini said: "I can understand it. I told him if you played with me, 10 years ago, I give to you every day one punch in your head! I understand his team-mates, but there are different ways to help guys like Mario."

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