Allegri praises Balotelli maturity over Inter abuse

25-Feb-2013 4:20:00 PM

Opposition supporters heckled their former forward throughout the Milan derby, but his coach was quick to praise his temperament in a hostile environment

AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has praised the maturity of Mario Balotelli after he was the victim of persistent verbal abuse throughout Sunday's 1-1 draw with Inter.

The controversial forward began his career with the Nerazzurri but joined their arch-rivals from Manchester City during the January transfer window, much to the anger of Inter supporters.

"Balotelli did very well not to react to the provocations, I'm just sorry he wasn't able to score," Allegri praised after the game.

Nerazzurri fans were at the centre of controversy earlier this month when they launched racist chants about the Italy international in the wake of his move to Milan, resulting in a €15,000 fine for the club.

Before Sunday's game, president Massimo Moratti and Inter 'ultras' released statements warning against a repeat of those actions.

The warnings over racism were generally headed though abusive personal banners aimed at Balotelli were on show at San Siro.

Some Inter fans waved inflatable bananas, items which have become a regular sight at Serie A games and not considered to be a representation of racist abuse.

The 22-year-old has scored four times in as many games for the Rossoneri since joining the club.

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