Blooper Mario to be axed

NOTHING TO CRO ABOUT ... Mario Balotelli is subbed after a poor display against Croatia

Published: Today at 14:58

The Manchester City striker flopped in the Azzurri’s first two Euro games, missing several good chances.

And boss Cesare Prandelli is set to wield the axe.

He said: “He has huge potential but needs to be more ruthless and pay more attention. These are the areas he needs to improve.”

Antonio Di Natale replaced Balotelli against both Spain and Croatia and is likely to start against the Republic of Ireland on Monday.

Italy must beat the Irish and hope for a victory either way in the Croatia-Spain clash to guarantee their place in the quarter-finals.

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