Italy boss Cesare Prandelli has said that he is "happy" to see Mario Balotelli maturing at Manchester City.
The Citizens star, who has replaced sidelined stiker Antonio Cassano in the Italian lineup, put the Azzurri ahead in their game against Poland last week, before setting up Giampaolo Pazzini to score the second.
Speaking afterwards, Prandelli complimented City boss Roberto Mancini on his management of the 21-year-old.
"I am very happy for Balotelli as after all the criticisms he received recently, it's right for him to enjoy this moment," he said.
"It's within Mario's qualities to be able to perform in the way he did and have the right attitude for the whole game. He is more mature and I am happy he has taken this path.
"It's what we have always asked of him and I want to compliment Roberto Mancini for this."
Italy host Uruguay at the Stadio Olimpico on Tuesday as the international break continues.
