Former Juventus defender Gianluca Pessotto has blasted ‘harmful’ ultras who have seen the club’s stadium closed.

Parts of the Juventus Stadium will be closed for the club’s next two League games after the Bianconeri were punished for territorial discrimination during the 3-0 win over Napoli on Sunday.

And the 43-year-old, who is now in charge of their youth sector, has insisted that the closure is damaging.

“We built a beautiful stadium to play football in,” he told reporters. “And these episodes are not only harmful to Juventus, but the game in general.

“We regret the songs from our ultras that have led to this closure.

“I hope what has happened will empower the majority of fans, because football must remain a show for the supporters.”