Football hellraiser Mario Balotelli is sizing up his next career - as a kickboxer.

The Italian superstar was sparring this morning with local Muay Thai boxing fighters in Phuket, Thailand.

Mario, 33, is learning the combat sport to stay in shape over the summer before pre-season begins with his Turkish side Adana Demirspor.

The footballer had a tumble from a rented scooter when fans mobbed him as he arrived on his second day at the camp on June 15.

However, he recovered from the scare and told staff that he was excited about learning the sport.

Speaking today, he said: 'I will keep practising. It's a really good workout. Could I have a real fight? That's up to my trainer. I'm enjoying it.'

Mario's trainer Boy Apinan said: 'Mario has a reputation in football for having an attitude, but he is actually a really friendly person. He has a lot of discipline and has been working hard.

'He isn't egotistical and he gets along well with everyone.

'We had some difficulties as he was unwilling to take photos or give autographs after many fans visited him on the second day.

'They approached him in large numbers, asking for photos and pulling him, which caused him to fall from his motorcycle while he was trying to park.

'This startled him and left him feeling uncomfortable, although he was also concerned about being perceived as arrogant.

'He simply wanted to have a relaxed trip and avoid any serious physical exertion to prevent injuries, as he needs to return to football training.

'He's here for a peaceful trip and wants to avoid injuries that could affect his football training when he gets back.

'The video from the second day shows his progress, considering he couldn't even kick on the first day, he is doing really well.

'He's interested in Muay Thai because of its reputation and he has a friend in Italy who excels in the sport, which sparked his desire to train in Thailand.

'As a footballer, he said he's looking for a way to stay fit.'

Mario, who plays for Turkish side Adana Demirspor, is said to have arrived in Thailand on June 9. He will leave on June 19.