Juventus boss Max Allegri says criticism of his players has been over the top.
Juve are now just a point clear at the top of the table.
Allegri stated: "Naturally after five years the bar will be raised even more, but we must understand that it takes everyone to come together and achieve something even more extraordinary. It's not as if we're eighth in the table, as we were last term after eight rounds. The lads have achieved their objectives this season.
“I am accustomed to criticism, as I got insulted when I was top of the table with Milan as well, so I got used to it. When I leave, maybe you'll have someone more likeable up here instead.
“So let's focus on improving the quality of our football, otherwise we won't reach the Champions League Final in Cardiff, and to get our players back to full fitness.
“We lost four games, but they were all very different. The only one we got totally wrong was against Genoa, when we conceded three goals in 25 minutes.
“If we want to go all the way in every competition, we must know that nobody will give us anything and every match we have to prove that we're better.
“I have to compliment Simone Inzaghi, as Lazio have a lot of quality and are well-organised, so it'll be a tough match for us."