Mario Balotelli: Don't boo Carlos Tevez

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli has urged fans not to boo Carlos Tevez when the Argentinian returns to first-team action.

Tevez recently resumed training for the first time since September, when he fell out with manager Roberto Mancini.

The forward could reportedly be named in the squad for Thursday's Europa League second leg against Sporting Lisbon.

"I think supporters have to be like they were before," said Balotelli. "If they make pressure on Carlos, they make pressure to all the team, so they should do nothing.

"I think everyone can make a mistake. Carlos is part of the team. He's just a part of the team, so everybody loves him."

The Blues travel to Swansea City in the Premier League on Sunday.