AC Milan head coach Clarence Seedorf has claimed that Mario Balotelli is improving as both a player and a man this season.

Balotelli's career has been blighted by a number of controversial incidents, but Seedorf believes that the forward is showing signs of maturing after seeing him score in the 2-0 victory over Fiorentina on Wednesday night.

"All credit to Balotelli after the Fiorentina game as he played at both ends of the pitch for 90 minutes," the Dutch coach told reporters.

"He behaved well with the referee as well - and that shows growth. If he continues like this, we'll all be very happy.

"I think Mario has shown big improvements in the last game, both as a man and a player."

Balotelli has scored 12 goals in Serie A this season.