City hails battle-hardened Balotelli after ban

MANCHESTER, England - Manchester City coach David Platt feels that Mario Balotelli is finally learning from the tough lessons that have come his way in England.

Balotelli (pictured) returned from a four-match domestic suspension - his fourth since arriving at City in 2010 - and scored the opening goal in City's 3-0 victory over Blackburn on Saturday.

The Italy striker, 21, is a regular in the gossip columns and has received as much attention for his off-field exploits as his performances for City.