AC Milan coach Leonardo has defended his players after last night's 4-1 thrashing by Bayern Munich in the Audi Cup.

"I believe that the 4-1 defeat was too much, with two goals in the last three minutes," insisted Leonardo. "Milan has just come from a very heavy tour, Bayern are ahead with their preparation.

"The 4-1 score is heavy, the result would have been more real at 2-1. Conceding a goal in the first few minutes is a problem because it is not the first time. But, there is no excuse for the defeat.

"Milan, however, arrived tired from a long flight. When you lose you cannot be bitter. Tomorrow another game, then a little rest and recovery for Monday."