Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli has broke down while on international duty with Italy.

The 21-year-old left team's training camp in Coverciano to undergo further tests in a nearby hospital and the City star will not play in next Tuesday's clash with Northern Ireland.

However, he is expected to be fit for Manchester City's return to Premier League action.

"Balotelli had problems during practice yesterday," Italy's team doctor Enrico Castellacci confirmed.

"We have decided, having spoken to Manchester City, to send him home."