Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli insists he has been harshly treated after being hit with a four-match suspension by the Football Association.

The Italian was given the retrospective penalty after catching Scott Parker on the head with a flailing boot during City's dramatic 3-2 victory over Tottenham at the weekend.

Referee Howard Webb missed the incident during the game and the FA decided to act after reviewing video evidence, with City electing not to appeal against the charge of violent conduct.

But the Italy international, who scored the winner against Spurs from the penalty spot in the fifth minute of added time, has defended his action.

Balotelli said "I am not a villain or a violent player.

"I have accepted the ban because I couldn't prove my innocence. I didn't try to (place my) heel (on) Parker."

Balotelli missed Wednesday night's Carling Cup semi-final exit at the hands of Liverpool, with manager Roberto Mancini unhappy to be shorn of his key striker at a crucial time.

The City boss feels referee Webb changed his mind over the clash with Parker, robbing him of the forward for the Anfield game as well as clashes with Everton, Fulham and Aston Villa.