World Cup: Mario Balotelli racially abused in Italy

Mario Balotelli was the target of racial abuse as Italy continue their preparations for the World Cup.

Cesare Prandelli's squad completed training at their headquarters in Coverciano, Florence when the AC Milan striker was abused by a group of young men, believed to be supporters of the national side.

Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport report the striker was labelled a "black piece of s***", while one fan is said to have threatened to break his nose.

Police had to intervene to allow Balotelli and the rest of the players to continue to train.

Italian football chief Giancarlo Abete was quick to condemn the supporters: "This is unacceptable behaviour. This should not happen.

"We will take this episode into account. The important thing is that this is only a minority and they have no regard for civil coexistence."

Balotelli's team-mate Ciro Immobile expressed his sadness at the incident but praised the striker for the way he handled himself.

He said: "In 2014 we shouldn't have to deal with racism. We have to improve as a nation. Fortunately, Mario was very calm.

"We will try to make appeals in order for these episodes not to happen again.

"I'm not ashamed of being Italian, but I do get upset by this type of behaviour."

It is not the first time Balotelli has been the target of racism, after he was abused by Roma fans during a Serie A game in 2013.

He made a 'shh' gesture on that occasion and threatened to walk off the pitch if he encountered it again.