Balotelli handed three-game ban for 'intimidating' referee

AC Milan player Mario Balotelli has been banned for three matches after using 'intimidating and insulting' words to the referee in his side's 2-1 defeat to Napoli.

According to the BBC, he was sent off at the final whistle after clashing with Napoli's Valon Behrami and arguing with the official.

In a typically eventful performance, the Italy striker missed a penalty for the first time in his career before superbly netting in stoppage time, the report said.

Milan may decide to appeal against the ex-Manchester City player's ban, the report added.

If the suspension is not overturned, he will miss the Serie A games against Bologna, Sampdoria and Juventus, the report further said.