It’s good to smile, Mario

ROBERTO Mancini has called on Mario Balotelli to replace his trademark scowl with a smile.

It is a trait Mancini feels the 20–year–old must get rid of if he is to secure star status amongst the City supporters.

"You need to smile to play football," said Mancini. "That is the best thing you can do and Mario must improve in this situation.

"Mario Balotelli has everything you need to be one of the best players in the world.

"But he must improve and he must show it. Only if you play well in every game can you say these things. It depends on him."

Mancini will have midfield scrapper Nigel de Jong back in his squad for the festive period which features a trip to Newcastle on Boxing Day and Tuesday’s home game against Aston Villa.

The Dutchman is available after serving a one–match ban for picking up five bookings.