Francesco Acerbi admits the Sassuolo injury crisis, especially to Domenico Berardi, has taken a heavy toll.
The Neroverdi are in their first ever European competition after going through the preliminary rounds, but paid for it with a slew of fitness problems.
“We have a great deal of injuries, it’s true, but it mustn’t represent an alibi because those who did step on to the pitch always gave their all,” Acerbi told Sky Sport Italia.
Francesco Acerbi admits the Sassuolo injury crisis, especially to Domenico Berardi, has taken a heavy toll.
The Neroverdi are in their first ever European competition after going through the preliminary rounds, but paid for it with a slew of fitness problems.
“We have a great deal of injuries, it’s true, but it mustn’t represent an alibi because those who did step on to the pitch always gave their all,” Acerbi told Sky Sport Italia.
“After the break for international duty we should have some important elements back and that will be a boost.
“Berardi is fundamental for us, but also for the Nazionale, so naturally we miss him.”
Berardi had scored seven goals in six official games this season, but has been out of action since straining the collateral ligament in his knee on August 28.
“The real issue is that with two competitions we have little opportunity to rotate and in the end that leads to fatigue.
“We don’t have time to rest and play every three days, which in the long run is damaging to the performances.
“In any case, without the penalty we’d have 16 Serie A points and be mid-table.”
Sassuolo beat Pescara, but it was turned into a 3-0 defeat by the Disciplinary Commission for fielding an ineligible player.