Nigel de Jong hails Mario Balotelli's new-found maturity

Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong has complimented teammate Mario Balotelli over what the Dutchman believes is a new-found maturity.

The Italian striker has featured in the headlines for all of the wrong reasons since his move from Inter Milan last year, but De Jong has said that Balotelli is learning his lessons.

"I think he is getting it now, why we always try to teach him a lesson," he told City TV. "He is getting it slowly but surely.

"You have to give him credit for the last couple of weeks, not just on the pitch but in the training sessions.

"He is behaving quite normal for him. Everyone is happy to be with him."

Balotelli was on target in City's 4-1 win against Aston Villa on Saturday.