Leeds United star looks a class above.
Leeds United confirmed last week that they had sealed the permanent signing of Spanish playmaker Pablo Hernandez, after his half season loan deal expired.
The BBC reported that the fee was ‘undisclosed’, but whatever the figure the Whites paid to Qatari club Al-Arabi, it looks like they have snapped up a bargain.
Leeds’ Pablo Hernandez in action with Derby’s Bradley Johnson
The former Valencia star stepped up immediately on Friday night, by helping Leeds to a crucial 1-0 win over Derby County.
He created six goalscoring chances, more than the entire Derby team did combined (5).
Hernandez has managed six key passes in a game three times this season – and is one of just two players in the Championship to do so.
The other is QPR’s Tjaronn Chery, who is set to leave England’s second tier for a deal in China, according to The BBC.
Bristol City’s Marlon Pack and Leeds’ Pablo Hernandez in action
Against Derby, Hernandez also completed five take-ons, more than he has done in any game for Leeds since joining the on loan club in the summer.
Whoscored.com had Hernandez rated as the highest ranked player on the pitch at Elland Road against the Rams, with the 31-year-old looking inspired, and fully fit.
It helps that he has a coach who he once played alongside at Swansea, who knows how to get the best out of him, but also that he is simply a class above.
The attacker has been capped for Spain in the past, and that quality is coming to the fore in the Championship.
He needs to be better in front of goal, with none of his three shots against Derby landing on target, but you wouldn’t bet against him kicking on and adding to his tally of three goals for the season.
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