Napoli striker Dries Mertens has paid tribute to Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri.

Mertens admits Sarri transformed his game when they worked together in Naples.

He said, “In the first season with Sarri I only played six games as a starter. So I was always mad, [but he would say:] 'You are so important for me, for the team, and don't worry, you'll have your chances.' One day he put me as a striker and I'm very happy [he did] because it changed my life. He just put me there and said: 'I'm sure you're going to do it well.'

“It's incredible because I never came here to be the all-time top scorer of this club."