Palmeiras top-scorer Leandro has defended under pressure manager Gilson Kleina after his side secured a last minute 2-1 victory over minnows Linense on Saturday night.
Kleina, who took over the side late in 2012, has been underfire after poor performances from his side in both the Paulista championship and the Copa Libertadores.
On-loan forward Leandro, though, believes that the coach is receiving undue criticism at present:
“Everyone can see the work he is doing,” Leandro told reporters. “It is not easy with so many problems. Today, he set up the team well and it was good that we won this game because he deserves it.”
While his team may not be in the best of form, it has been a good start to the new campaign for Leandro on a personal level.
Five goals in eight appearances have made the 19-year-old the Verdão’s top-scorer, as he looks to recover from a loss of form at parent side Grêmio.
