Mario Balotelli aims shotgun at 'haters' in Instagram photo

AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli has sparked controversy for uploading a photo of himself on Instagram, appearing to aim a shotgun at the camera.

The Italy international, who was blamed for his nation's World Cup exit by numerous fans, posted the image on his personal account, with the caption: "kiss to all who hate me."

The 23-year-old, who is currently on holiday following Italy's exit from Brazil, later deleted the photo from the social networking website.

Balotelli's future at AC Milan remains unclear following reports linking the striker to Arsenal and Liverpool.