Italy midfielder Thiago Motta believes Mario Balotelli will be an influential figure for the Azzurri at Euro 2012.
Paris St Germain midfielder Motta knows just what to expect from Balotelli and reckons the volatile Man City striker could have a big role to play in Poland and Ukraine.
"We need Balotelli to work for the team, and to show responsibility," Motta said as Cesare Prandelli's squad continued preparations in Krakow for their opening match of the tournament against defending champions Spain on Sunday.
"Only like that can he make the difference, and I'm sure he will. He must help us, especially on the pitch because, off it, he can be the same as always.
"Balotelli makes me just as angry now with his jokes as he did when he was at Inter. But away from the pitch he is a good lad."
Motta, meanwhile, accepts the Italy squad need to regroup, having endured a difficult time recently.
A match-fixing scandal disrupted their build-up, with Prandelli forced to drop Zenit St Petersburg defender Domenico Criscito from the squad as he is under investigation.
Moreover, last week's friendly against Luxembourg in Parma was cancelled because of an earthquake in northern Italy.
Last Friday's 3-0 defeat to Russia - Italy's last test ahead of the Euros- was the Azzurri's third straight friendly loss.
"It's normal that after three straight defeats you are worried," Motta said. "But the mentality of the team will be crucial.
Ireland play Italy in the final Group C game on 18 June in Poznan.
