Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has revealed that he has been giving advice to controversial teammate Mario Balotelli.

Balotelli has endured a mixed career with City since his move in 2010. He has been plagued by red cards and rash moments on the field, and worldwide publicity for his exploits off it.

The Italian is set to return from suspension against Manchester United on Monday night, and former United striker Tevez says that Balotelli can turn his fortunes around.

"Mario is young and has everything you need to be a great, great player. I do talk to him and give him bits of advice here and there on what to do and what not to do - when you are young like Mario you do need to be told what to do," Tevez told the Manchester Evening News.

"He does get things wrong from time to time, but that will stop as he gets older. But he does have what it takes, and if he takes advice and continues on a good path he will be a great player."

City trail United by three points in the Premier League table ahead of Monday night's meeting at the Etihad Stadium.