Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has blasted Giuseppe Bellusci as "shambolic" after his display in the Whites' 3-0 defeat to Middlesbrough on Sunday.

Leeds' defending was left to be desired following Sunday's defeat and individual errors played a huge part in all three of Boro's goals, with Bellusci actually scoring an own goal himself to give the Teessiders a two goal lead before half-time.

Whelan, who played 48 times for hometown club Leeds between 1993 and 1995, gave his verdict on the Italian defender's display.

"It's been shocking defending from the word go," said Whelan to the BBC, who also had a three year spell with Middlesbrough during his playing career. "He's been shambolic and I personally don't think he should be on the pitch."

"He shouldn't be playing for Leeds United. I don't think he's good enough. I don't trust him as a player, it's as simple as that."

"He doesn't have the right skill to play for this football club and maybe play in this division."

Whelan's feelings on the 26-year old are certainly strong and, going on Bellusci's performance at the Riverside, it may be justified.

Bellusci was criticised for his role in the first goal as some said he should have been stronger and dealt with the ball before it fell for David Nugent to turn home.

However, it would be harsh to blame Bellusci alone for the own goal as their appeared to be a severe lack of communication between the Italian and the goalkeeper, Marco Silvestri as he headed a George Friend cross into his own net.

Uwe Rosler will have some work to do to fix the issues that Leeds suffered defensively on Sunday and he will demand a better showing at the back from his side when they host Birmingham City this weekend.

Leeds fans...Was Whelan's criticism justified? Is he using Bellusci as a scapegoat for Leeds' poor defensive display? Let us know what you think in the comments below!