Lauded by Rodgers, would Celtic’s Tom Rogic have solved Leeds United’s problems?

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Brendan Rodgers could barely contain his excitement with Tom Rogic on the comeback trail – how Leeds United could do with him.

As Joe Allen will tell you, Brendan Rodgers’ sycophantic public praise is not always a good thing. The ‘Welsh Xavi’ moniker followed him throughout his time at Liverpool, often utilised as a sarcastic aside when discussing Allen’s shortcomings rather than a means of praising his strengths.

Leeds United fans should keep this in mind then with Rodgers claiming that Celtic’s Tom Rogic, linked with a move to Elland Road in the summer by The Express, will soon rank alongside the best midfielder’s Europe has to offer.

However, there’s no doubting that Rogic, like so many of his team-mates, has his hit new heights since the Northern Irishman took over at Celtic Park last summer.

“The magic man is back – what a player,” Rodgers told The Scotsman with the Australian returning to action following a four-month injury lay-off. “He’s an amazing player.

“I think he can grow into one of the top midfield players in Europe. You saw him grow in the Champions league. You saw him [in the group stage clash with] Manchester City and just purr at his quality.”

Despite his gangly, 6ft 2ins frame, the Australian is a joy to behold in full flow, slaloming through the centre of the park with composure and class. He’s also scored ten goals in all competitions this season, matching his tally from 2015/16 in 12 fewer games.

And, although Leeds United look good for a place in the play-offs, worrying losses against Reading and Brentford have highlighted the lack of creativity in midfield.

With top scorer Chris Wood marked out of the game on both occasions, Leeds have failed to score in their last 180 minutes of league action while Pablo Hernandez’s recent loss of form has contributed to the lack of cutting edge.

And, ironically, a technically gifted central midfielder with an eye for goal a la Rogic is exactly what Garry Monk’s side are crying out for.

Though, with Rodgers rating him among the continent’s best, it’s unlikely he’ll be available any time soon.