Noel Whelan said on BBC Radio Leeds (5:22pm, November 7, 2020) that he wants Raphinha to start games for Leeds United now.
The former Leeds striker, who now works as a pundit for BBC Radio Leeds, was impressed by the display produced by Raphinha after he came on as a substitute against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the Premier League this past Saturday.
It was the 23-year-old winger’s third substitute appearance of the season in the league following his move from French club Rennes in the summer of 2020.
Whelan has been impressed by what he has seen of the Brazilian youngster, and the BBC Radio Leeds pundit believes that it is time that the 23-year-old starts games.
The Englishman said on BBC Radio Leeds (5:22pm, November 7, 2020): “I think Raphinha when he came on gave us a different dimension. He showed his class, showed his skill. Some tight control of the ball, driving inside, linking up with players, switching the play, range of passing.
“He’s someone who really excited me when I knew that he was coming to Leeds United. And we’ve seen little glimpses. We saw a lot more of him this evening when he came on and I do feel that he had a lot to offer. And I’d like to see him start and given that opportunity.”
Time for Raphinha to start?
It is not always easy for players to adjust to Leeds United head coach Marcelo Bielsa’s system.
Raphinha has played only 60 minutes in the Premier League for the Whites so far this season, according to WhoScored, and perhaps he will start matches after the two-week international break.
The Brazilian, who has had injury concerns as well this season, could get his chance if Bielsa decides to tinker with his team following two successive 4-1 defeats in the Premier League.
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