Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini was full of praise for Mario Balotelli and Adam Johnson after their goals ensured a 3-0 victory against Red Bull Salzburg in the Europa League on Wednesday night.
Balotelli netted a brace with Johnson also finding the target as City progressed to the last 32 with one game, against Juventus, still to play.
Mancini revealed the extent of his admiration for the pair, but admitted they must add hard work to their repertoire if they are to succeed at the club.
The former Inter Milan boss said: "They could become among the best players in the world, strong players.
"They need to work hard all the time. They both scored fine goals but they must carry on."
Balotelli was given a standing ovation as he made way for Emmanuel Adebayor late on after picking up a slight knock.
Mancini added: "That is just him. It is normal for him as he does it every day in training. He came off with a little knock.
"I think he can improve on that performance. He could run more and take more of his chances. He might have got two or three more goals.
"My only disappointment tonight was we could have scored more goals in the first 20 to 25 minutes."
City's final group game is on December 16 in Turin against Juventus, who were eliminated from the competition following their 1-1 draw with Lech Poznan.
