"I was holding back" in presidential debate, says Trump

Republican nominee for US President Donald Trump has said that he won the debate against Hillary Clinton on Monday, and added that he was "holding back" against his opponent.

Speaking at a campaign rally in Melbourne, Florida, the New York tycoon spoke in front of a rapturous audience in defence of his performance in the televised debate.

Most experts and viewers agreed that Clinton edged the debate by appearing more assured and solid on her policies.

"I was holding back. I didn't want to embarrass her," Trump told the rally.

"She is the candidate of yesterday, and ours is the campaign and the people of the future," Trump said. "She's an insider, fighting only for her donors and insiders. I'm an outsider fighting for you."

Trump also criticised debate moderator Lester Holt on Tuesday, saying that he was asked more difficult questions than Clinton.

In his speech, the Republican candidate reiterated his promise to bring vast amounts of jobs back to US shores.

"We will rebuild our country, and we will put a lot of people to work," Trump said.