Mills and Kewell back Leeds

DANNY MILLS and Harry Kewell both insist that Leeds are – and have been - united.

Manager Terry Venables saw his side chalk up only their second league victory in 12 games on Monday night when Bolton were beaten 3-0 at the Reebok Stadium.

It was just the result the former England coach needed after 12 defeats in the previous 24 games in all competitions.

England defender Mills and Australian striker Kewell were keen to stress their backing for Venables and each other.

On speculation that Venables had lost the dressing room, Mills said: "Not at all. The lads are fully aware it is down to the players as much as anyone.

"This group has done well in the past. It is up to us to turn things around.

"A manager can only do so much on the training pitch. We have got to look at ourselves.

"If we can keep turning in performances like this, keep working hard, I am sure we can turn it around.

"We believe we deserve to be higher in the table but obviously we have to prove it."

Kewell, who returned to the side after a virus, said: "I know people have been saying things about a lack of unity.

"There has been nothing like that, whatsoever. Training has been perfect, everyone gets on well and there is a great team spirit."

Mills laid the foundations for victory with a spectacular 20 yard strike his first goal in 15 months.

Robbie Fowler, making his first start of the season after a hip operation, got a second with Jason Wilcox's thunderbolt sewing things up.

Leeds are now hoping to chalk up back-to-back wins when Southampton visit Elland Road on Saturday.

Mills said: "Hopefully we can build on this victory as we are now six points clear of Bolton. We need to keep building if we want to get up the table.

"If we can get another win that will take us into Christmas brimming with confidence. My goal did get us off to a good start. It just opened up for me and I thought I should have a shot.

Kewell's return to the side was a boost for Venables, especially as Alan Smith, Mark Viduka and Michael Bridges were all ruled out. Kewell said:

"Of course I am pleased that we won but I know I can do a lot better than that.

"We are in a little bit of trouble and we have to get our act together. Hopefully this is a kick start.

"We are looking forward to Southampton but we know it is going to be a tough game."

Bridges, who is sidelined with a ruptured Achilles tendon, got a get-well-soon message from his team-mates after the game.