LONDON: Manager Roberto Mancini has told striker Mario Balotelli (left) he can carry on puffing — as long as he lights up Manchester City with goals, reported The Sun.

Balotelli’s smoking habit is a source of irritation to the management, along with his temperament and rollercoaster form.

But Mancini (right) says the cigarettes can stay if he starts finding the net on a more regular basis.

“If he smokes 10 cigarettes a day and scores two goals every game it is better," said the Italian.
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"But I don’t like to smoke. If he wants to smoke it is his problem for his life.”

It is just another exasperating episode in the life of the endlessly controversial Balotelli.

Yet Mancini insists he will stick by him and this summer he turned down three approaches for the £22million star, including one offer from big-spending Paris St Germain.

“My patience with him is endless,” said Mancini.

But smoker Balotelli was steaming in midweek when he was left out of the squad for the Champions League game with Real Madrid.

Mancini denied there had been any bust-up with the Italy international, who had been pictured out the night before City set off for Madrid.

- mD