Javi Gracia has defended his players over criticism that they lacked desire during Leeds United's 6-1 defeat against Liverpool on Monday night.
Leeds have conceded eight of their 11 goals over the past two matches during the second half, and have had nine goals wiped off their goal difference.
The Whites have conceded more goals (60) than any Premier League club this season, and have been dealt a huge psychological blow following back-to-back thrashings against Crystal Palace and Liverpool.
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Gracia has sympathized with the concern of the supporters, but insists that the defeat against Liverpool was not through a lack of desire.
"I can understand the supporters because in some parts of the last game and in the game before in the second half against Palace, there were some moments when you could have that feeling [that the players lacked desire]," Gracia said in his pre-match press conference.
"But I have to defend my players because I know they tried. Sometimes these moments are difficult to manage, and to deal with that is something which is more than a lack of desire for sure."
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