AC Milan head coach Sinisa Mihajlovic would like to see Mario Balotelli change his attitude so the club's fans can see he does care about the cause.
The 25-year-old marked his first start since returning from injury with the only goal as he scored a penalty in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Alessandria in the first leg of their Coppa Italia semi-final.
Balotelli reacted with a typically reserved celebration, but Mihajlovic – who insists the striker does care about his performances – would like to see him alter that attitude.
"I think what we saw on Tuesday proved they are not in good shape," said the ex-Sampdoria boss when asked about the fitness of Balotelli and Kevin-Prince Boateng ahead of Sunday's derby against Inter.
"I told Balotelli to celebrate when he scores a goal, but it is just not in his nature. He is a good lad and he might seem as if he doesn't care, but that is not the case.
"It is like when you are with a woman and want to tell her you love her, but you can't say the words.
"I hope Mario will change this attitude because others think he looks angry and it is not helpful. Being a football player is the best job in the world."
Injuries have restricted Balotelli to only two Serie A starts this season since he made the loan move from Liverpool in August.
'I think it’s probably too soon for him to come to a top, top club like Arsenal - I’m not sure if he’s ready to be the main man at a club chasing a Premier League title' Promising striker NOT ready for Gunners, says former star
‘I won’t miss Match of the Day as that’s the person I am – I’ve never missed playing football, even though I loved it. The show will be fine – I’m thrilled to be leaving it in good health’ Gary Lineker tells FFT how he’s feeling about the end of an era
