(ANSA) - Rome, December 2 - Liverpool striker Mario
Balotelli could face a Football Association (FA) investigation
despite apologising on Tuesday for a post on his Instagram page
that sparked a racism storm.
On Monday, the 24-year-old posted an image of the Super
Mario computer game character with a caption that read: "Don't
be racist.
jumps like a black man and grabs coins like a Jew".
The talented, temperamental player, whose career has been
dogged by episodes of indiscipline and several bizarre off-field
incidents, deleted the post and said sorry.
"I apologize if I've offended anyone," Balotelli said via
Twitter.
"The post was meant to be anti-racist with humour. I now
understand that out of context it may have the opposite effect.
"Not all Mexicans have moustache, not all black people jump
high and not all Jewish people love money.
"I used a cartoon done by someone else because it had Super
Mario and I thought it was funny and not offensive. Again, I'm
sorry".
British media reported that Balotelli has been asked by the
FA for his observations regarding the post.
The FA is reportedly considering charging Balotelli with
bringing the game into disrepute.
The forward, who has notched 13 goals in 33 appearances for
Italy, has yet to score in the Premier League after joining
Liverpool from AC Milan in the close season.
He is out of action at the moment with a hamstring injury.
Soccer:Balotelli sparks racism storm, faces FA investigation
Italian apologises, says Instagram post misinterpreted