Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has told Mario Balotelli that he will only start for the club again when he deserves it.
Reports continue to suggest that Balotelli is looking to quit City, just five-months after moving in a £20million-plus switch from Inter Milan.
The 20-year-old was dropped to the bench for City's win at Newcastle, and again looks set to be amongst the substitutes for their clash with Aston Villa.
And Mancini has made it clear that Balotelli needs to battle his way back into the side.
"If Mario deserves to play he will play, if he doesn't deserve to play he doesn't play," warned Mancini.
"If Mario doesn't work, he doesn't play. Mario is a special player but you have to put strength and heart into your performances as well."
Mancini admitted he was at a loss to explain Balotelli's constant dour demeanour.
"I do not know why he does not look happy," he said.
"He is in a fantastic team playing in probably the best league in the world. Manchester is not like Milan but he has to accept it."
