Mario Balotelli has been granted compassionate leave by Liverpool following the death of his adoptive father Francesco.

Liverpool commenced pre-season training on Monday, with The Telegraph reporting that Balotelli was not in attendance after being given additional time off as he deals with the loss.

Francesco and his wife Silvia adopted Balotelli at the age of three.

The Italian international is expected to join the Reds when they depart for their pre-season tour of Australia and Asia this weekend.