Koeman says AZ did not deserve to fall out of Europe

The AZ Alkmaar coach, Ronald Koeman, refused to criticise his team after Tuesday night's goalless draw at home to Olympiakos ended their hopes of making the Champions League knockout stage.

The Dutch side needed a win to keep alive any hope of progressing from Group H after taking just two points from their opening four games, but were unable to find a way past visiting goalkeeper Antonis Nikopolidis.

Koeman, though, felt his side could have won. "Olympiakos played for a point. We played for the full three points and had most of the game. I cannot criticise the team. They did everything, but it was always just not enough," he said.

The Belgium international Sebastien Pocognoli echoed his manager's thoughts. He said: "I am disappointed by our elimination. On the other hand, we played well. Especially in the second half, we were strong. But ultimately it is the result that counts. And a draw is not enough."

In the Bundesliga, Edin Dzeko has promised he will not be leaving Wolfsburg this winter, but the chances of him still playing for them next season are slim. The Bosnian striker is high up on Milan's list of targets and the Italians are believed to be lining up another bid after failing last summer. Several other major European clubs are said to be interested too.

However, the 23-year-old insists he is committed to Wolfsburg, at least until the end of the season. "A transfer in the winter is not an issue at all," he said.