David Beckham has defended Mario Balotelli over the controversial back-heel which saw him hauled off in Manchester City's match at LA Galaxy.
Blues boss Roberto Mancini questioned the 20-year-old's professionalism after he languidly put a clear chance wide.
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"I've watched it back and, from his mannerisms, I believe he thought he was offside," said Beckham, advising the Italian to still score in the future.
"Mario's been a great player for quite a few years and is still very young."
The former England captain, who used to play for City's rivals Manchester United, added: "He'll continue to get better I am sure.
"But it doesn't matter whether you think it was offside or not. There are a lot of young kids watching these teams and great players who come out here. You have to be professional and score the goal."
BBC