'Teams need continuity to reach a great level' - Motta rues Juventus' injury woes
Juventus boss Thiago Motta spoke about how injuries to several key players have hindered his side's progress this season.
Thiago Motta feels injuries have prevented Juventus from enjoying any "continuity", but is not using it as an excuse after back-to-back defeats.
The Bianconeri suffered their first Serie A defeat of the season against leaders Napoli last weekend, while they were also beaten in the Champions League by Benfica on Wednesday.
Juve have had to contend with injuries to several key players this season, with their latest setback seeing defender Pierre Kalulu sidelined with a muscular issue.
Chelsea loanee Renato Veiga likely to fill the void for this weekend's visit of Empoli, and Motta wants his players to get back to winning ways in the face of adversity.
"It's a shame we can't have Kalulu with us," he told reporters during his pre-match press conference. "There are others who will surely come in and do well, and they will be a great help.
"Kalulu and Federico Gatti did well [in central defence]. Now, we have Renato Veiga who will help us. We haven't had an easy time, so many injuries haven't helped us. This is also why we didn't win. Teams need continuity to reach a great level.
"[The injuries are] not an excuse, it's the reality, a fact. But we will never look for excuses. Even other teams that won and then had injuries have struggled to maintain a certain level. We're angry about a few defeats. Now, let's work hard to win."
Veiga is one of three signings Juventus have made during the January transfer window, along with Alberto Costa and Randal Kolo Muani.
It remains to be seen whether there will be more additions at the Allianz Stadium before the window closes, but Motta says he is yet to discuss any further business with the club.
"I have never spoken about it and I will not do so today, except to say that I am in line with the club," he added. "I am very happy with the team I have and with the boys."