Roberto Mancini has described Mario Balotelli as "crazy" after the striker's brace helped Manchester City thump local rivals Manchester United 6-1 at Old Trafford.

The controversial forward scored City's first two goals just 24 hours after he had to evacuate his house due to a blaze caused by setting off fireworks indoors.

Balotelli revealed a t-shirt which read 'Why always me?' after he netted his first at Old Trafford, and Mancini believes it is his eccentric personality that makes him a fans' favourite.

"That's Mario," said Mancini. "But that's why he's so popular with the supporters – because he is crazy.

"He is crazy but I love him as a guy. Maybe if you take away that part of him it might take something away from him as a player.

"But I love him because he is good guy and he has everything to become a top player."

The win has opened up a five-point gap at the top of the Premier League table between first-place City and United.