Maduka Okoye has admitted that defensive changes have contributed to Udinese's difficult start to the season after conceding 10 goals in their opening four matches in the Serie A.
Udinese manager Kosta Runjaić has frequently changed his central defensive pairing this season, using seven different centre-backs in his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation over six games in all competitions, while Okoye has featured for the full match in all but one of those outings.
The Nigeria international has kept just one clean sheet this season, with his only shutout coming in Udinese's Coppa Italia clash against Padova.
In his most recent Serie A appearance, Okoye conceded five goals as Inter Milan recovered from a two-goal deficit to beat Udinese 5-3.
It was the highest number of goals the goalkeeper has conceded in a single Serie A match since his debut.
Okoye has called for an immediate reponse, insisting that the Bianconeri defence must improve regardless of the players named in the starting lineup.
In quotes relayed by Udinese's official website, Okoye said on TV 12's Udinese Tonight show: "The fact that the defense changed almost every game is perhaps a reason for the goals conceded, but even with changing players, you should still do well.
"Ten goals is a lot, we need to change something and we're working on it. It must be said that we've played against strong teams so far."
Up next, Okoye and his Udinese teammates face Cagliari in their last game before the international break.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Discussions (0)