sport

Balotelli injured in training

Italy forward Mario Balotelli limped out of training on Saturday and may be doubtful for Monday's Euro 2012 clash with the Republic of Ireland.

In order to reach the last eight, the Italy must beat the already-eliminated Irish, and hope the result in the Spain-Croatia match goes their way.

However, they may have to cope without Balotelli, who started their opening two games, 1-1 draws with Spain and Croatia.

The Italian football federation says the 21-year-old had to abandon training due to "a minor right knee problem," and added that he will be re-examined by team physician Enrico Castellacci on Sunday.

If he misses out, Antonio Di Natale, who came off the bench to score against Spain, could be in line for a starting berth.

Update:

Hello, regular commenting on Orange News and Sport pages closes on Thursday 30 May 2013. We will continue to provide a commenting facility on major news and sport events on orangeworld.co.uk. Contact us via http://oran.ge/OWfeedback if you have any further questions. Thanks.