Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch claims that he is not afraid of the relegation fight and has urged his players and the fans to stay calm following their 3-0 home defeat against Aston Villa on Thursday night.
Goals from Philippe Coutinho, Matty Cash and Calum Chambers condemned the Whites to their sixth successive Premier League defeat, and they remain just two points above the relegation zone.
Marsch has admitted that he underestimated the stressful situation the players are currently in, but hopes they will adapt to his philosophy quickly and that they can build up their confidence heading into the final third of the campaign.
"I am not afraid of the moment and the situation. In some ways I like having my back against the wall," Marsch said to the press after the game.
"We have a situation that is really tough, I'm not going to sleep a lot tonight, but I will think carefully, and I hope we regroup. Better on Sunday. This is what I am here to do. Help the players understand what we need to do to thrive in this situation.
"I underestimated the stress of the moment from the players' perspective. We had a very good week, 10 days together, we tried to create clarity for the group in how we play and the behaviours we want.
"We lacked confidence and aggression in the match. I heard a lot from the crowd, and I thought it was fantastic from the beginning, but I could see the players want to do so well so badly for the fans, it brings more pressure and stress.
"We have to stay calm and be clear. I can see here we have to stay strong with that message. We have to know the fear will ensure failure, not protect us from failure. Have to attack and go after opponents. Biggest lesson from tonight."
Leeds will now prepare for a relegation battle at home against Norwich City on Sunday, before travelling to Wolverhampton Wanderers next Friday night.
