Former AC Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi has defended Stefano Pioli amid sack calls.

Milan are yet to win since the last month's international break.

But Sacchi defended coach Pioli, insisting to La Gazzetta dello Sport: “Is there somebody thinking it is Pioli's fault? I hope not. I think the biggest error was made at the start. That's where all the problems began.

“Too many foreign players were signed. Those coming from abroad take a while to understand our league and our methods. These guys seem confused and the result is that Milan do not always look like a team.

“I think boos were fair because the performance had been terrible. The fact is that there isn't enough time to enter the player's heads and convince them to become a collective."

He continued: “When I arrived at Milan, I was labelled as Mr. Nodoby and I was a Mr. Nobody but I didn't want arrogant and individualist players or not professional.

“Coaches must make their voices heard before making new signings. Before signing Rijkaard, I sent somebody to follow him for two weeks. When he returned, I even asked him what he ate and which were his habits off the pitch. You must choose the person ahead of the footballer.

“Pioli must have the leadership needed to lead a group," continued Sacchi.

“I was struggling in my first season at Milan, so Berlusconi arrived at Milanello and said: 'Good afternoon, I have the maximum trust in Arrigo; those who follow him will remain next year. Who doesn't will leave. Goodbye.' A 27-second speech. From that moment, we started a great ride. The club's strength is crucial to reaching great targets."