Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli could make his return to the international fray tomorrow when the Azzurri host Denmark in a 2014 World Cup qualifier.

Balotelli was prevented from playing in Italy’s 3-1 away win in Armenia on Friday because of flu-like symptoms.

But the former Inter striker, who has recently been linked with a move back to Italy’s Serie A, was given the thumbs-up by team doctors after a weekend of light training.

“Balotelli responded well to tests yesterday and today (Sunday),” Azzurri team doctor Enrico Castellacci told reporters at Italy’s training camp near Florence.

If selected by Italy coach Cesare Prandelli, it would be Balotelli’s first international appearance since the 2012 European Championships.

Balotelli was unavailable for selection against Bulgaria and Malta because he underwent laser surgery on his eyes. The striker is short-sighted and decided on surgery because of allergic reactions to contact lenses.

The timing of the operation, however, did not go down well with Prandelli.

“I admit I was upset by Balotelli’s decision to have an eye operation the same week that two Italy games were on the horizon,” Prandelli told reporters after naming his squad last week.

Sebastian Giovinco replaced Balotelli for Friday’s match but limped off in the second half with a sore ankle although the Juventus forward is reported to be on the mend.

Against Denmark, Italy will be aiming to make it three consecutive wins, having opened their campaign with a fortuitous 2-2 draw away to Bulgaria last month.

Ahead of tomorrow’s match at the San Siro, Italy sit top of Group B with a two-point lead on Bulgaria and three on the Czech Republic, who have played a game less.

Armenia are in fourth on three points while Denmark, who have also only played two qualifiers, are in fifth place.

Malta, who lost 3-1 to the Czech Republic in Plzen on Friday, prop up the group with no points after three straight defeats.