Napoli striker Dries Mertens insists the team has a big future.

Mertens, however, admits they need to bridge the gap with AC Milan and Inter Milan.

After their 6-1 thrashing of Sassuolo, he said: “The whole team is disappointed, because in my nine years of being here, this was the most disappointing.

“We had 91 points and still didn't win the Scudetto in other years, but this time we really didn't feel the other teams were stronger.

“On the other hand, sides like Juventus, Roma, Lazio and Atalanta are behind us. It's a pity we are in third, but if we can get into the Champions League, then we can build to challenge again next term. I think next season we can really go for it, but only if our minds are in the right place.

“It's not just a message for the players, but also the fans, the media, everyone. We all made mistakes, we all wanted to win too, but this is a passionate city and we need to stick together through thick and thin. I know it's a bad moment, but we are heading for the Champions League, we can build and do great things in the future, together."