Pope Francis clears air on stepping down

Pope Francis has denied rumours that he is about to resign.

In an interview published this week, it was claimed the Pope was suffering from a serious illness.

But speaking to Reuters, the cleric said: “It never crossed my mind”.

When pressed on whether he might emulate his predecessor Benedict XVI, who was the first pope since the middle ages to resign, Francis said “for the moment, no. For the moment, no. Really!”

Francis was asked if he would step down someday if his health fails.

The 85-year-old replied: “We don’t know. God will say.”

He then explained he had suffered a “small fracture” in his knee, which was treated with laser and magnet therapy.