Smith’s stout defence of beleaguered boss Reid

LEEDS striker Alan Smith has issued a defiant defence of boss Peter Reid, insisting he remains the man to lead the club out of their current crisis.

Chairman Professor John McKenzie has intimated further talks are likely to be held with Reid regarding his future if Leeds lose to Arsenal on Saturday.

Leeds are currently one off the bottom of the Premiership and out of the Carling Cup following their third-round exit at the hands of bitter rivals Manchester United on Tuesday.