The manager of Fulham, Marco Silva, has supported Bernd Leno and stated that the German stopper is not to blame for his team’s Wednesday loss in the Carabao Cup semifinal.
Despite tying 1-1 at Craven Cottage, Fulham lost 3-2 on aggregate against Liverpool. After just 11 minutes, Luiz Diaz’s deflected shot beat Leno at his near post, giving the Reds the advantage.
The Whites lost the opportunity to play in their first domestic cup final since 1975 despite Issa Diop’s strike 15 minutes from time setting up a thrilling conclusion. They were unable to produce a second goal to send the match into extra time.
After spending £3 million to get Leno from Arsenal last season, Silva declared that the 31-year-old was the best acquisition he had ever made and that he should not be held responsible.
“It’s easy to criticise any player for a mistake, but Bernd is the first to know what he should or shouldn’t do,” Silva remarked.
“The first leg at Anfield and Bernd’s performance thus far this season are excellent examples.
“He kept us in the game and gave us a chance to determine the second leg at home at the Cottage after Liverpool scored to make it 2-1.
He has performed admirably for us during the most of the games. He is an excellent professional goalie.
“People can say what they want, but I know he has performed since coming here and will always be important to us.”
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