Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri says the Europa League is to blame for their inconsistent season.

Lazio have reached the round of 16 of the competition.

“Europa League is killing us, but it's our fault," Sarri said.

“Our performances drop after games in Europe. The team cannot cope with so many games. That's our current limit. The top team somehow manages to pick up a 0-0 draw or win 1-0, but we are exhausted when we get to the game."

Sarri continued: “We want to build a young team that can grow with time. We don't know where we can get, but that's we believe that's the easiest path.

“I think it's similar to what happened in Naples, with the coach at the centre of the project. That's why I've always said that I like to stay here.

“However, Lazio have only qualified for the Champions League when Inter and Milan were not competitive, now the situation is more complicated."