AC Milan coach Leonardo admits he almost lost his job earlier this season.

Leonardo appeared on the way out after their Champions League defeat to FC Zurich, but has turned things around since then.

He said: "If things had gone badly in the last month, I don't know if I would've been forced out of this job. I have always said that in football you need some time to see the reality of the situation, as it's made up of peaks and troughs.

"Consistency arrives one step at a time and in the last few games the team has always added something more. I can see great enthusiasm running through the squad and the optimism to keep doing well.

"In a way, it's harder when things are going well, as you're worried about keeping that balance and not letting the momentum slip. It's a tough job being a Coach and I am taking it as a life lesson."