Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo has defended Italy teammate Mario Balotelli.

Pirlo also scoffed at a question on Manchester City striker Balotelli being "a weight" on Italy's shoulders after his miss against Spain.

"I don't understand why anyone would consider Balotelli a weight. He is an important player, just like the others, and tries to give his best for the team.

"We have several great strikers with different characteristics in the squad and that can only be positive."