Leeds United boss Simon Grayson was proud of his young players after losing 1-0 at Arsenal in the FA Cup.
Leeds held out until twelve minutes from time when the returning Thierry Henry netted for the Gunners.
The average age of the Leeds side last night was just 24 with Danny Pugh the oldest Leeds player starting the game at 29.
Speaking on ESPN after the game, Grayson said, “I`m very proud of the players, we worked extremely hard. We kept our shape and the organisation was good. You know Arsenal are going to have a lot of possession of the ball.
“Some of the young kids have come out with a lot of praise.
“We grew into the stature of the game. They are a young team out there and they will have learned from the experience.
“It shows that the players can handle the big stage and the big games. It shows that we have got a good temperament for the big games and hopefully it will stand us in good stead for the rest of the season.”
The Leeds defence battled and did not look overawed against a good Arsenal attack.
Youngster Zac Thompson only celebrated his 19th birthday last week and he started his second game in a row at right back. Darren O`Dea (24) and Tom Lees (21) looked solid in the centre, whilst Aidy White (20) managed to contain the highly rated Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on the left.
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