Prandelli: Balotelli 'won't stand alone'

The Italy coach, Cesare Prandelli, has declared he and his team will stand up for Mario Balotelli should the Manchester City forward be subjected to racism during Euro 2012.

There has been a worldwide campaign to combat racism in football over the last few years yet there are fears some players might be targeted.

"In the case that Balotelli is a target of racial boos, we will all step out on the pitch from the bench," Prandelli said yesterday. "We will do something for Mario should that case arise."

The 21-year-old Balotelli experienced racism while playing for his former club Internazionale in Serie A and recently stated he would "not accept racism at all".