Former Lazio goalkeeper Marco Ballotta has defended Juan Pablo Carrizo after the Argentine's disappointing performance in the 1-1 draw with Lecce.

Carrizo was caught napping for Simone Tiribocchi's goal that allowed Lecce to take a point at the Stadio Olimpico.

"It's only natural that he would have some problems and perhaps he still needs to work on the technical side," Ballotta told Teleradiostereo.

"He was caught out and the pitch was slippery so he didn't have time to react. It was a mistake but I don't see the point in condemning him.

"Carrizo slipped as Tiribocchi headed the ball and so he couldn't move to stop it."

Ballotta also discussed his situation after leaving a director's position at Modena within weeks of the season starting.

"I left Lazio and felt close to home in Modena," he explained.

"Initially the conditions were right for me to work, but things changed and I was happier leaving.

"Now I am a free agent and I won't rule anything out. If only I could return to Lazio - I always follow their results."