Balotelli escapes blaze

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli was forced to flee from his burning house after a firework was set off in his bathroom, officials said yesterday.

In what is yet another bizarre episode in the 21-year-old Italian’s career, police and fire crews were called to the striker’s home in Macclesfield shortly after midnight after the blaze broke out.

“Crews managed to put the fire out within half an hour of arriving but remained at the scene until 2.45 am to prevent any possible flare-ups,” a spokesman for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said.

“Smoke alarms were fitted at the property and the occupiers were able to get out unharmed. The fire was caused by a firework.”