Inter Milan legend Tarcisio Burgnich has defended coach Leonardo after their Champions League thrashing by Schalke.
The 5-2 home defeat to Schalke came days after their 3-0 reverse to AC Milan.
"The last word is never said in football until the final whistle," said classic defender Burgnich on Radio Sportiva.
"Therefore the second leg could hold quite a few surprises. In any case, I don't think the defensive performance was entirely down to Lucio's suspension. I believe tiredness and a lack of confidence played their part."
Cristian Chivu has been sent off in two consecutive games against Milan and Shakhtar.
"He was coming off a period in which he hadn't played very much, so it's not easy to get back into form, especially for a 30-year-old in such important matches," continued Burgnich.
"It's not over yet. Nobody expected a result like last night, so I think it's entirely possible to turn it around in the second leg, as long as the fitness levels are restored.
"Leonardo should not take the blame. In football the Coach takes only 20 per cent of the responsibility and the players do the rest."
