BALO: MAKE ME SKIPPER

MARIO BALOTELLI says making him Italy captain would be “an important signal” to African immigrants. The former Manchester City and Liverpool striker (left) has been recalled by coach Roberto Mancini. But the friendly against Saudi Arabia last week was overshadowed by a banner reading: “My captain has Italian blood”.

The Nice striker, a sub for tonight’s friendly with Holland, said: “Making me captain wouldn’t make a difference to me – but it would be an important signal for all African immigrants.”