Roberto Mancini believes Manchester City is still to see the best from Mario Balotelli, despite seeing his striker go some way to answering his critics with an eye-catching performance in the 3-0 victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday in its FA Cup fifth-round clash.

The Manchester City manager questioned the Italian striker's workrate and demanded he do more ahead of the match.

Balotelli, who cost 24 million euros ($33.3 million), has been struggling with a knee problem and had threatened to earn more yellow cards than goals since his arrival from Inter Milan.

But after his fine finish took him into double figures for the season, Mancini said: "Mario played well and scored a fantastic goal against Villa.

"He's improving all the time, but it's hard as he has just returned from injury. But I know there's still more to come from him."

Manchester City has been fighting on three fronts with the FA Cup joining the Europa League and the Premier League in its chase for silverware.

It's been 25 years since its last trophy but it took a step closer to achieving that aim as goals from Yaya Toure, Balotelli and David Silva, all summer signings, saw off a weakened Aston Villa.

Manchester City will now face Reading, the Championship side who pulled off a big upset by beating Everton.

And although it appears that the Premier League title is unlikely, with Mancini writing off his team's chances, the FA Cup quarterfinal is the least of his priorities.

Securing a place in next season's Champions League with a top-four finish has shot to the top of the Italian coach's list of things to do.

"Against Villa they (Villa) had the option to change.

"I don't have that option at this moment. We have been playing a lot of games. I have some tired players. Of course I'm pleased to get through.

"But first we need to get fourth position."