Paddy Kenny and Gary Lineker defend Leeds, after heavy Manchester City loss

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Leeds United were completely humiliated at The Etihad on Tuesday night as Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City won 7-0. But both Paddy Kenny, and Gary Lineker, have leapt to the defence of Marcelo Bielsa’s side.

Leeds came into the match with a huge number of injuries. Liam Cooper, Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford – the core of Bielsa’s side – all suffered hamstring issues in the 2-2 draw with Brentford.

The Whites were also likely to be somewhat demoralised by a last-minute loss to Chelsea – having fought so hard to draw level at 2-2. Injuries, and the monster that is Manchester City, combined to result in a 7-0 defeat.

Kevin De Bruyne looked as if he was back to his best, scoring a couple of glorious goals. Jack Grealish got only his third of the season for City, after Phil Foden opened the scoring. Riyad Mahrez also got one.

Late on, defenders John Stones and Nathan Ake found themselves on the score sheet. A dismal performance and loss for Leeds, but ex-Whites goalkeeper Kenny and Lineker both defended Leeds on Twitter.

Kenny, Lineker on Leeds: Whites must put City loss behind them

What is crucial, is that Leeds remember a defeat to Manchester City is not going to define their season. Nor is it the kind of loss that will contribute to a potential relegation dogfight come April and May.

Leeds still sit in 16th, five points above the drop zone. That is, with the entire first half of the season with huge injury issues. Bamford, Cooper, Phillips, Robin Koch, Luke Ayling, Rodrigo and Raphinha have been out at times.

Leeds need to move on quickly. They take on Arsenal at Elland Road on Saturday, a game they are capable of getting something from – especially with the turmoil at Arsenal currently.