Nigel de Jong impressed with team-mate
Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong has revealed that has is impressed with Mario Balotelli as the Italian has finally settled down to the responsibilities of being a Manchester City player.
The temperamental forward gave a man of the match performance against Aston Villa on Saturday, contributing with a goal in the convincing 4-1 victory which sent them to the top of the table.
The 21-year-old’s improvement has come at a great time for City as the look to resurrect their UEFA Champions League campaign in midweek. Meanwhile De Jong believes that Balotelli is finally settling down to life in Manchester following a turbulent start.
The Dutchman told City TV: “I think he is getting it now, why we always try to teach him a lesson. He is getting it slowly but surely.
“You have to give him credit for the last couple of weeks, not just on the pitch but in the training sessions.
“He is behaving quite normal for him. Everyone is happy to be with him.
“Nobody ever doubted his qualities but with great qualities you need to have big responsibilities as well – not only on the pitch but outside as well.
“I think he showed that to the group and Manchester City as well in the last couple of weeks.”
Boss Roberto Mancini left trio Edin Dzeko, David Silva and Samir Nasri on the bench, whilst Sergio Aguero was rested after injury, and Balotelli took full advantage of his opportunity as he proved to be City’s main attacking threat.
