Manchester City chaplain Peter Horlock has refused to discuss Mario Balotelli but claims that he provides support to players dealing with life in the spotlight.

Reverend Horlock is believed to be meeting Balotelli regularly due to a number of controversial incidents that have surrounded the Italy international's career since moving to the Etihad Stadium.

"I'm there to provide pastoral support and friendship to the players and the staff," the Daily Mail quotes Horlock as saying. "Sometimes the players from overseas feel homesick or have problems at home, and need someone to confide in."

When prompted about Balotelli, Horlock said: "I would never discuss anyone's personal situation. All I would say is that at a club like Manchester City there are a lot of very decent people who don't share my faith."

Horlock works for charitable organisation Sports Chaplaincy UK.

Written by
Danielle Joynson