Roberto Mancini has confirmed Mario Balotelli’s injury means he is unlikely to play again this month.

The Italian striker has been absent from the team since the victory over Blackpool and has had a frustrating time with injuries this season.

“Mario’s knee is not so good at the moment and I think we won’t know how long it will be before he is back playing for maybe two or three weeks,” said the Blues’ boss.

It’s a blow for him and for us, but we are hoping that he will be back sooner rather than later

...Roberto Mancini

 

There is better news concerning playmaker David Silva who picked up a knock in the New Year’s Day victory over the Seasiders.

“The news on Silva is much better,” revealed Mancini. “He has responded well to treatment and may be ready to face Wolves on Saturday. We will assess him today and tomorrow and then make a decision on whether he is ready or not for the weekend.

“Our only other concern is Micah Richards who has hurt his back. At the moment he is doubtful for Wolves and we won’t know for a few more days how long he is going to be unavailable for.”