Al-Ettifaq boss Steven Gerrard reacted to his side’s defeat to Al-Nassr and called for more signings to strengthen his squad in January.
Al-Nassr claimed a 3-1 victory over Al-Ettifaq in the 16th round of the Saudi Pro League on Friday to remain ten points adrift of Al-Hilal.
The first half saw the hosts take the lead in style from Alex Telles’ sumptuous strike on the volley before Marcelo Brozovic and Cristiano Ronaldo added goals after the break.
Despite a late consolation from Mohamed Al-Kuwaykibi, the defeat meant that Al-Ettifaq have now failed to win any of their last eight games in all competitions.
Steven Gerrard spoke after the game and admitted Al-Ettifaq will need reinforcements in January to compete with Al-Nassr at the top of the league table.
“Al-Nassr deserved to win today,” Gerrard said in the press conference. “I think we gifted them their second and third goals.
“It’s always disappointing when you concede such goals, especially after the first half we played but I think their first goal was superb and is difficult to stop for any goalkeeper.
“Moussa Dembele’s injury hurt us in the last few games but I’m glad he’s back because he’s the only that can be an attacking threat to the opposition.
“I have a meeting with the board and my message is clear. Something has to change and we need to go into the transfer market for more players.”