Manchester City step up Guidetti fitness plan following Balotelli departure

The 20-year-old striker has yet to make a Premier League appearance for the reigning champions but could be set to fill the void left by the Italian's move to AC Milan

By David Lynch

Manchester City are stepping up reserve striker John Guidetti's fitness regime as they attempt to fill the void left by Mario Balotelli's departure.

Balotelli is closing in on a return to Italy, with a move to AC Milan expected to be completed before the end of the January transfer window after the two clubs agreed a fee.

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And City believe that Guidetti, who has scored in his last two outings for the Elite Development Squad, can now make the step up.

The Swede has been placed on a new training programme by Roberto Mancini's fitness staff and is using a specially designed scooter in order to speed up his recovery from a knee injury.

Guidetti spent last season on loan with Eredivisie outfit Feyenoord and scored 20 goals in 23 league appearances.