Italy boss will not be taking Inter Milan striker to South Africa

Italy manager Marcello Lippi has claimed the controversial Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli will not be in his final 23 for this summer’s World Cup in South Africa.

According to Lippi, the 19-year-old, who has been capped at Under-21 level, is not mature enough yet to handle the pressures of competing at a major tournament, despite the fact he is a regular in Inter Milan’s table-topping squad.

"Balotelli is a lad that has great potential," said Lippi.

"I am certain, that once his path to maturity is complete, something which Inter are managing very well, he will be able to bring in his quality to the national team."

Balotelli is injured, and so is not in the Inter squad to face Chelsea tonight, but his side can be backed to qualify for the quarter-finals, at the expense of the English side, at 6/5 with StanJames.