Balotelli ‘own biggest critic’

By Football Italia staff

Mario Balotelli says he does not allow journalists’ criticism to affect him as he himself is his own biggest critic.

The Milan forward will line up for his side in tomorrow night’s Champions League tie against Atletico and is relishing playing regular football again.

“I am very critical of myself,” Balotelli said at the pre-match Press-conference ahead of the game.

“It doesn’t bother me when journalists criticise me because I will already have done it myself.

“I am very happy to be able to be playing. Last year when I was watching from the sidelines I suffered slightly.

“Now I hope to be able to help the team.

“Am I a champion? I think I am a good player.

“I am a striker, but I would be willing to play in goal if it meant winning the Champions League!

“I want to help the group and win. In games like the one tomorrow there is something different.

“I didn’t score in the group phase because I didn’t play that much.

“I have never scored against a Spanish team because they are all tough sides. Maybe I can start now.”

The 23-year-old also paid tribute to new Coach Clarence Seedorf.

“It’s like having another teammate,” he explained. “Things are coming more easily for me now.

“He’s like a big brother.”

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