Mario Balotelli's sister Cristina has claimed that her brother is "calm" ahead of Italy's Euro 2012 quarter-final meeting against England this evening.

The controversial Manchester City striker has been widely tipped to start against the Three Lions.

"Mario is very calm, nice and determined," she told BBC Radio Five Live. "I know he wants to do his best. He is very relaxed about tonight's game and confident. He was very playful when I spoke to him.

"I love him for the way he is. Knowing him, I'm sure he is looking forward to this match because he will meet his friends from England."

Balotelli has scored one goal at the tournament so far.