Lescott confident of winning Balotelli duel

21 June 2012 10:47

England defender Joleon Lescott is determined to quell the threat of Italy striker Mario Balotelli when he comes up against his Manchester City team-mate on Sunday.

"Coming up against Mario's going to be a tough task," Lescott said. "We know the quality he possesses. At any time he can create something.

"He's quick, he's strong, he can create something out of nothing, similar to the other world-class strikers at the tournament. He came on (against Ireland) and changed the game. He got his goal, which is a great reward for him."

Another of Balotelli's City team-mates, midfielder James Milner, said he expects Lescott and the defence to shackle the Italian.

"Joleon has been playing like that all season for City but now he is doing it for England as well. He knows Mario well, trains with him every day so I'm sure he will keep him quiet," he said.

Source: AFP