Mario Balotelli Will Be Included in Italy's Team for the European Championship

Italy boss Cesare Prandelli says he will include Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli in his team for the European Championship this summer.

Balotelli's place in Italy's summer plans had been called into question following his sending off against Arsenal earlier this month.

The forward was excluded from the Azzurri in January after Prandelli found him in violation of the team's ethics code as a result of being sent off for a stamp on Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker.

Prandelli told Italian media outlet RAI that not only is Balotelli in his plans for the European Championship, he expects the 21-year-old to take a leading role. (h/t Goal.com)

“I was pleased that he took responsibility with his statements after the latest incident at Manchester City," Prandelli said. "I like those who stand up and accept responsibility for their actions. I never really thought of doing this without Balotelli, as he is a focal point of the national team.”

The Italian coach was referring to a public apology given by Balotelli a day after he was shown red against Arsenal.

At that time, the player acknowledged the fouls that led to his dismissal, but was adamant that his play had not violated Prandelli's ethics code.

Balotelli has spoken openly and often of the pride he feels representing Italy in the national team. Last week, he told Italian newspaper Gazzetta Dello Sport that, for him, the national team comes before his club. (h/t Mirror Football)

The striker made his debut for Italy in August 2010 in a friendly against Cote d'Ivoire. Since then, he's appeared eight more times for the Azzurri with Prandelli's latest comments assuring that number will climb quickly this summer.