Pennant: We'll Bounce Back

Last updated : 16 September 2003 By Kevin Markey

Peter Reid has already conceded all the hard work, following the club's first victory of the season at Middlesbrough over two weeks ago, has put them back to square one.

The 4-0 scoreline at the Walkers Stadium was a true reflection of a match after which Reid stated Leeds were 'second best all over the pitch'.

In the absence of Dominic Matteo Reid was left wondering whether he made a mistake in playing Brazil World Cup-winner Roque Junior after one training session, as Leeds were totally disorganised.

But for goalkeeper Paul Robinson the margin of victory could have been far worse, this their worst league defeat for two-and-a-half years.

Reid included five of his loan signings in the starting line-up, with a sixth on the bench, so perhaps it was unsurprising the team played like a bunch of strangers.

But winger Pennant, himself on a two-month loan from Arsenal, believes that was not the reason behind United's sudden demise.

"I don't think it was really a case of too many new players not having time to gel,'' insisted Pennant.

"The only really new player in the starting line-up was Roque Junior. I know he had only just arrived, but that's just one player and I don't think it made a difference it was his first game.

"In the game at Boro we managed to get the three points, so I think this was just one of those days when nothing really went right for us.

"Obviously, we didn't expect to lose 4-0, but I'm sure it's one of those things. Now all we want to do is put it behind us and work towards Saturday.

"We're all disappointed. We've just got to pick ourselves up and we'll bounce back against Birmingham.''

Although last night's result clearly hurt, Pennant could not be happier as he added on Real Radio: "I'm enjoying my time with Leeds. I'm being treated well and that gives me a lot of respect for the gaffer and the players and they've a lot of respect for me.

"At the moment I'm happy and when you're happy you're playing well and hopefully I can stay here a bit longer.

"I feel I'm growing with every game and playing with so many good players can only help me improve.

"But playing against quality opposition means I'm also going to get the best out of myself. I'm just looking forward to it and hopefully there are good times ahead.''