Smudger Hits Out At Viduka Critics

Last updated : 04 May 2004 By Kevin Markey

Viduka contrived to get himself sent off during Sunday's 4-1 defeat at Bolton, not endearing himself to the United faithful.

Until the dismissal, Leeds were holding their own a goal in front, a fact not lost on many fans, who still dreamed of avoiding the drop.

Smith, however, insists his strike partner was as committed to saving Leeds as any other player, saying there were no recriminations from the 28-year-old Aussie's team-mates in the dressing room after the match.

"I feel sorry for Mark. A lot of people have said a lot of things about Viduks but against Bolton you saw how much it meant to him," said Smith. "Everybody wants to do well and win, unfortunately that kind of desire resulted in Mark getting sent off.

"Nobody should pick him out as a scapegoat, he is a world-class player and has been outstanding for us. I am not going to blame him for anything. And nobody in our dressing room had a go at him for what happened.

"He has given everything he's got and hopefully people will appreciate that if he leaves in the summer."