体坛英语新闻：Juninho Pernambucano defends David Luiz for shaky Ligue 1 performance

PARIS, Dec. 24 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian defender David Luiz has been defended by his compatriot Juninho Pernambucano for the criticism he's received since joining Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

The former Lyon star insisted that David Luiz's performances were not so bad in his maiden season at the defending French champions.

"David Luiz has not started his season as he should," Juninho told local radio RMC while being asked about his opinion on his fellow Brazilian.

"Today, he still has not the form expected of him," said the 39- year-old. "I would not say it is bad."

David Luiz, 27, moved to France from Chelsea with a record- breaking 50 million pounds transfer fee in the off-season.

The deputy skipper of the Brazilian national team has made 20 appearances in all competitions so far for Paris, which ended the half-season on third trailing leaders Marseille on deficit of just three points.

"I watch PSG play," Juninho continued to comment. "He commits mistakes from time to time, but all the goals are not because of him."

"This team does not live together," he added. "They are not able to play all matches at the same level."