Robbie Keane has claimed that Leeds United’s Raphinha has ‘real ability’ in his game, as he told Sky Sports Football (16/01/22 at 1:35 pm).
The former striker thinks Leeds United’s quick-footed winger has been a ‘revelation’ under Marcelo Bielsa.
Despite Leeds’ problems with injuries this season and constantly hovering above the relegation zone, it has resulted in the team producing a number of worrying results and performances.
But one thing that has remained constant has been the form of Raphinha, who has probably been Leeds’ best player this season.
Kalvin Phillips out injured? Patrick Bamford missing for most of the campaign? A squad full of teenagers?
Well, it’s been no problem for someone like Raphinha, who has scored eight Premier League goals.
And Keane was full of praise for the Brazil international and what he has produced ever since he was signed up.
“For me, he has been a revelation since he signed for the club,” said Keane. “I would imagine there would be massive clubs around the world watching him.
“I think he has got real, real ability. He can change a game in an instant. When you lose someone like Bamford, who has been so important with the way they play, for someone to step up. He has certainly done that.
“He has scored very, very important goals. The way he drifts. He plays on the right and comes on the inside.
“He reminds me of Mahrez. The way he side foots the ball into the back of the net. Very, very comfortable. Great skill and great balance.”
Raphinha made his Brazil debut last year and it didn’t take him too long to transform his club form onto the international stage.
Despite Brazil boasting stellar names in their ranks, with the form Raphinha is producing, he is slowly becoming a key player for the South American side.
Leeds have returned to the big time, not just to mope around midtable, but get back into Europe.
They have stumbled this season, but if they are to reach those heights again, then players like Raphinha are going to be very crucial.
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