Mario Balotelli: Nice striker misses out on Italy call despite incredible start to life in Ligue 1
Ex-Liverpool forward has netted five goals in just four games in France, but has been overlooked by Giampiero Ventura
MARIO BALOTELLI has failed in his attempt to force his way back into the Italy set-up - despite netting five goals in just four games this season.
The Italian forward, 26, has enjoyed a strong start to life in France with Ligue 1 side Nice since eventually leaving Liverpool on a free transfer this summer.
His sparkling form led to calls for his immediate re-call - having been frozen out since 2014.
Yet 33-cap striker Balotelli - as well as West Ham's Simone Zaza - has missed out once again, with Graziano Pelle and Nicola Sansone preferred alongside Eder, Andrea Belotti, Manolo Gabbiadini and Ciro Immobile.
Italy's new boss Giampiero Ventura will lead his side in World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Macedonia during the upcoming international break.
And he has taken the bold step of including uncapped youngster Alessio Romagnoli - a target for Chelsea this summer under Italian boss Antonio Conte.
Meanwhile, Man United's Matteo Darmian is in the squad alongside Hammers defender Angelo Ogbonna.
Italy will look to continue their strong start to life under Ventura, having beaten Israel 3-1 in his opening game.
Italy squad in full: