Leeds United's on-loan winger Jack Harrison has defended his teammates performance against Stoke City, claiming they didn't take their opposition for granted.

The Whites lost 2-1, as well as losing defender Pontus Jansson to a red card in soft circumstances, and that prompted manager Marcelo Bielsa to label it their worst performance of the season.

They remain on top of the table despite the poor run of form, but Manchester City player Harrison admits they need to do better in the upcoming games.

"Obviously it's a disappointing result," the 22-year-old told LUTV. "We know we could've done better and a few things maybe didn't go our way. But we can't use that as an excuse and now we have to look forward and concentrate on the next game.

"This time period is such an important one and crucial time for points so we have to try and get as many as we can. We knew it was going to be hard going to Stoke and we knew they had a good side. We knew it was going to be a tough match and we weren't taking that for granted at all."

Leeds face a trip to Yorkshire rivals Rotherham this weekend, before a huge table-topping clash with rivals Norwich City at Elland Road. That game could prove to be pivotal in the season for both clubs and Harrison knows Leeds have got to be better than they have been in recent weeks.

"I think the lads are very excited. We need to redeem ourselves from the last performance and bounce back from that. I know the lads will be ready for this weekend," he continued.

The Whites will gain an advantage over one of their rivals this weekend with a win, as Norwich host third-placed Sheffield United in another six pointer at the top of the table.

The Verdict

Harrison is one of the players who didn't cover himself in glory at the weekend. The left side of the attack has been a problem all season for Bielsa, with Alioski looking far too defensive and Harrison not displaying any of the talent which sees him at Manchester City.

They need three points against Rotherham this weekend, especially with Norwich and the Blades facing off against each other. It could give them a valuable cushion going into the match against Daniel Farke's side.

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