Italy coach Marcello Lippi is a great admirer of Inter Milan's promising striker Mario Balotelli but doesn't believe he is ready to play at the World Cup.

The 19-year-old has played for Italy's Under-21 side but has yet to cement his place in Jose Mourinho's Inter squad.

"Balotelli is a lad that has great potential," said Lippi. "I am certain, that once his path to maturity is complete, something which Inter are managing very well, he will be able to bring in his quality to the national team."

Balotelli was left out of Inter's squad for their Champions League return leg at Chelsea.