Italy coaching great Arrigo Sacchi has jumped to the defence of Juventus boss Maurizio Sarri.

After losing the Serie A leadership last week, Juve were beaten by Lazio on Saturday, so leaving Sarri under huge pressure.

But Sacchi insisted to Gazzetta dello Sport: "Beyond the knockout, Juventus followed the coach's ideas for almost the entire game.

"In Rome he planted a seed beyond defeat. It is the right way to climb in Europe."

Sacchi added: "I do not share the severe criticism that Sarri and his men have suffered, now it is essential that the players follow their coach with conviction..."