Balotelli could miss Denmark match with injury

FLORENCE, Italy (AP) — Italy forward Mario Balotelli has a strained left thigh that could keep him out of Friday's World Cup qualifier against Denmark.

Balotelli sat out training on Wednesday and had his leg examined at a local hospital after complaining of pain a day earlier.

National team physician Enrico Castellacci says, "We'll evaluate him day by day. If he recuperates quickly he'll be available right away."

Italy has already qualified for next year's tournament in Brazil, while Denmark hopes to remain in contention for a playoff spot.

After the match in Copenhagen, Italy hosts Armenia in Naples on Tuesday.

Balotelli has 11 goals in 26 appearances for Italy. On Sunday, he finished serving a three-match ban in Serie A with AC Milan for insulting the referee.