Andy Robinson says he wasn't surprised by the quality of Leeds United's performance at Derby on Tuesday night - but knows the importance of repeating that week-in week-out.

The former Swansea man was a key figure as United dominated the biggest part of the Carling Cup clash at Pride Park, and he came closest to levelling the scores when he was denied by a terrific reaction save by Derby goalkeeper Roy Carroll.

"I wasn't surprised," said Robbo. "I know what we can do. The only disappointment was that we gave them two goals, but I think we put on a good show for our fans.

"It's a weird game sometimes. We had all the play, went close, and their keeper made a tremendous save. We kept plugging away, but it never came.

"The football was exciting against a Championship club and we showed we have players who can play at that level."

For all United's efforts, the game ended in a 2-1 defeat, and our exit from the Carling Cup was confirmed.

"For a League One club to get to the quarter-finals would have been great," said Robbo. 

"We said before the game 'let's get in the next round', but we played some magnificent stuff and I hope the fans enjoyed the spirit, the fight and the character. We need to show that in the league."

Robbo was also quick to thank the fans for their support at Derby.

"It's been like that all season - these fans are unbelievable," he said. "They make some noise and it felt like a home game."