Roma manager Jose Mourinho has hit back at his critics after experiencing the worst-ever start to a season in his career.
The Giallorossi suffered a 4-1 Serie A defeat to Genoa on Thursday night to mark their third defeat of the season, leaving them 16th on the table with just one victory claimed.
Read: OFFICIAL: Greenwood's club issues statement over fan abuse
With only five points in six matches, this is Mourinho's worst start to a season, beating his 2015/16 Chelsea side's seven points in six games.
Goals from Albert Gudmundsson, Mateo Retegui, Morten Thorsby and Junior Messias saw Genoa sink the Giallorossi, leading to many fans voicing their frustrations at the club and manager.
The Roma faithful could reportedly be heard chanting "we want respect", "we've had enough" and "show us some balls" during the match.
Mourinho, when asked about the team's poor start to the season after the game, admitted that it was his worst, but was also quick to defend his record with the side.
"It is the worst of my career too," the Portuguese tactician said, as per the Daily Mail.
"However, I also think it is the first time that Roma have played two European finals in a row."
Despite the "hurt" that the players may be feeling after hearing the supporters' chants, Mourinho also urged them to step up.
"It is the squad we have and with this squad we must emerge from this situation," he added.
"There is no more transfer window, nobody can leave or arrive, this is the group we have with its qualities and its problems.
"We have no time to cry. We can cry internally, because it hurts our heart, especially for me because of my rapport with the Roma fans.
Read: Zidane 'ready' for new job after shock Saudi agreement
"But tomorrow we will be back at work. The next game is worth three points, not seven or eight, but it becomes a very, very important match for us."
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
WATCH: