Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds United youngster Jamie Shackleton has been raving over Raphinha and his defensive work.
It’s not surprising to hear Shackleton waxing-lyrical about Raphinha, after all, the Brazilian is one of the Whites’ best players, but he’s more of an attacking threat than a defensive force.
However, Shackleton believes that Raphinha’s contributions at both ends of the pitch should be valued.
What’s been said?
Shackleton was discussing Raphinha and his defensive work.
“He’s [Raphinha] great at both sides of the game,” he told the Yorkshire Evening Post.
“Everybody knows about his attacking qualities, they are pretty obvious. But I think what he does defensively goes unnoticed. It definitely helps my game when I’m playing at right-back.”
Spot on
Shackleton is spot on about Raphinha’s ability.
It’s so easy to become entranced by the winger’s pace, silky skills and incredible technical ability, but the reality is that you can’t play in a Marcelo Bielsa team unless you’re willing to put in the hard yards.
Raphinha is always keen to track back, and when necessary, he’s more than happy to put a foot in for a challenge.
Of course, attacking play is always going to get more plaudits, but perhaps the Brazilian should also be commended for the defensive work he does.
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