Carlton coach Mick Malthouse has backed his team’s leaders, saying they are “wonderful people” who “give their all”.

With only one win for the season, the pressure has been on Carlton players, and in particular the leadership group, but speaking to FIVEaa on Tuesday Malthouse said he’s “certainly not” disappointed in his leaders.

At three-quarter time against the Lions on Sunday, the Blues found themselves eight points down, having been outscored 3.3 to 5.5 in the third quarter. It was then that Malthouse said the leadership of Bryce Gibbs shone through.

“I looked at Bryce Gibbs at three-quarter time and his efforts to lift the side were just simply outstanding,” Malthouse said.

“When Murph was out there (on the field) in both the midfield and down back, his effort to lift the side was totally outstanding.

“I said to both boys, I reckon they were more worried about lifting everyone else that their game deteriorated because of it, I can’t criticise that,” he said.

Malthouse applauded the two, saying he could never question the effort of either player.

“They are so concerned about winning games of football and getting everyone involved…their next challenge is being able to combine both (leading and performing), ” he said.

The duo has recently signed multi year deals, dedicating themselves to the future success of the Carlton Football Club. Malthouse said he admires their loyalty and dedication.

“I think that both boys making a combined nine-year contract to the football club is just outstanding…I take my hat off to them…it’s not easy to make those decisions,” he said.