Italy midfielder Daniele De Rossi has insisted that team-mate Mario Balotelli is no trouble when it comes to harmony amongst the squad, and is treated no different to anyone else. (Italy 7/2 in Euro 2012 betting to beat Germany).
Balotelli could become a key figure in tonight's semi-final clash with Germany, as Italy will try to retain their record against their opponents and book a Euro 2012 final place against defending champions Spain. (Balotelli 13/5 in Euro 2012 betting to be score any time).
Although the 21-year-old has had a colourful career for club and country, with his behaviour on and off the pitch often drawing attention, for the wrong reasons, there is no questioning his ability as a player.
De Rossi said: "Mario is not a difficult character, we treat him the same as every other member of the squad, we don't make any extra effort with him as there is no need to." (Italy 13/2 in Euro 2012 to win the tournament).
"I shouted at him at half-time during the England match, but that has happened thousands of times as a player, there are no problems, there have never been any. He is an excellent player."
The 28-year-old Roma star is suffering from a sciatic nerve problem, and although he has a reputation for soldiering on through injury, he has been raised as a doubt for tonight's fixture.
He added: "It's not that I am a soldier, I am professional that is all. I have a bad back, but I have faith in myself, and confident that I can play. I will do everything in my power to be fit."
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