By Justin Davis
AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli hit out at his critics a day before the struggling Serie A giants host in-form Atletico Madrid.
Balotelli made partial amends for a string of mediocre performances for Clarence Seedorf's side with a stunning long-range strike which sealed a late 1-0 win against Bologna on Friday.
It came in timely fashion, only days ahead of the first leg of a Champions League last 16 tie against Diego Simeone's Spanish title chasers.
Balotelli hopes it has silenced his detractors for a game for which Milan, going on recent statistics, are the underdogs.
"I criticise myself enough, so when I hear it coming from other people I get really fed up," the 23-year-old told media on Tuesday.
Atletico, who are pushing Barcelona and Real Madrid for command of La Liga, are firm favourites for a win that would boost their quarter-final chances ahead of the return leg at the Vicente Calderon in a fortnight.
However, Balotelli says he is spurred on by the chance to make partial amends for Italy's last final defeat at a major international tournament.
A brace from the Italy striker in the semi-final of Euro 2012 against Germany set up a final against Spain, who went on to rout the Azzurri 4-0.
Seedorf, meanwhile, admitted earlier this week that Atletico will be formidable opponents.
"I hope tomorrow we will reap what we have sown over the past weeks," said the 37-year-old.
The Dutchman took charge of the ailing Italian giants following the sacking of former handler Massimiliano Allegri in early January when they were languishing below mid-table.
And after three wins in five league games and a quarter-final exit from the Italian Cup at the hands of Udinese, the jury remains out on Seedorf who spent 10 success-laden years at the club.
AFP
source: newshub archive
