Jesse Marsch issues huge Rodrigo claim ahead of FA Cup replay v Cardiff

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Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch has confirmed that Rodrigo is in contention to start in the FA Cup against Cardiff City. He has also waxed lyrical over the Spanish striker’s recent form.

The Whites host the Bluebirds at Elland Road on Wednesday night in a replay of their third-round fixture. Sonny Perkins saved the West Yorkshire outfit from an early exit with a 93rd-minute equaliser. Leeds had trailed 2-0 in south Wales before Rodrigo (65’) pulled one back.

Rodrigo has offered 11 goals through his 19 appearances across all competitions so far this term. The 31-year-old has also laid on one assist. But he stunned his head coach at Aston Villa on Friday despite not scoring or creating any. The Whites also lost 2-1 in Birmingham.

Marsch adored Rodrigo’s performance as the £26m former Valencia star constantly sought to cause issues against Unai Emery’s squad. He also had the ball in the back of the net only to see it ruled out for offside. Alex Moreno also cleared one of Rodrigo’s shots off the line.

Rodrigo stayed alert to turn the ball home while on the ground after Tyrone Mings blocked Brenden Aaronson’s attempt. But the 27-cap attacker, who also nearly won a penalty after Douglas Luiz put his arms on the Spaniard’s back, was offside in the build-up to the efforts.

Rodrigo left Marsch in awe with his efforts as Leeds lost at Aston Villa

Marsch has now waxed lyrical over Rodrigo’s display at Aston Villa with the Leeds manager claiming it was among the best performances a striker has produced for him. He has also confirmed that the forward is in contention to start against Cardiff in their FA Cup replay.

“Rodri came out of the match and I thought he was fantastic against Villa,” Marsch stated, via quotes by the Yorkshire Evening Post. “One of the best performances I have seen from a striker for me. We will be looking to get him turned around again for this match.”

Marsch only fielded Rodrigo for the final half an hour as Leeds visited Cardiff in the FA Cup third-round. His goal off their bench was also the Rio de Janeiro, Brazil-born striker’s first in the competition. He only enjoyed 45 minutes at Crawley in 2021 and did not play in 2022.