Jack Wilshere has paid tribute to Mario Balotelli, despite the striker claiming to not know who he is.
Gunners youngster avoids spat with City striker
Jack Wilshere has paid tribute to Mario Balotelli, despite the Manchester City striker claiming to not know who the Arsenal midfielder is.
Balotelli collected Tuttosport's 'Golden Boy' trophy as the best player under the age of 21, with emerging Gunners star Wilshere in second place.
But the temperamental former Inter Milan forward appeared to be in the dark when questioned over the credentials of his nearest challenger.
"I don't know who Wilshere is but the next time I play against Arsenal I will keep a close eye on him," Balotelli told
Tuttosport.
Congratulate
Emirates Stadium midfielder Wilshere could have been forgiven for being somewhat put out, but he has instead elected to praise his Premier League rival.
Wilshere told his
Twitter followers: "Would just like to say how honoured I am to have got 2nd place in the 'golden boy'! And like to thank everyone who voted for me!
"And would like to congratulate Mario Balotelli on winning it, even if he doesn't know who I am! He is a top player!"
Balotelli is set to come up against Wilshere in Premier League action when Roberto Mancini's men make the trip to North London on 5th January.
