Pablo Hernandez played well for Leeds United this season.
Noel Whelan has raised doubts over Leeds United star Pablo Hernandez on BBC Radio Leeds.
The former Leeds striker has pointed out that Hernandez, who can operate as an attacking midfielder or as a winger, is now in his mid-30s and could need replacing next season.
Whelan said on BBC Radio Leeds: “Are we going to get the same Pablo Hernandez next season? That’s the thing. He is 33 now.
“Are we going to need to strengthen that area because not just is he a winger, but he is a playmaker?
“So that number 10 role and the wide area becomes even more critical to replace with an intelligent player.”
Finding another Pablo Hernandez
Hernandez is 34 years of age now, and although he had a brilliant season yet again in 2018-19, Leeds cannot rely on the Spaniard all the time.
There were signs towards the end of the season that the former Valencia and Swansea City star – who is very popular among the Elland Road faithful – was getting tired, and the Whites need to be aware that in his mid-30s, the Spaniard has to be managed properly in terms of playing time.
According to WhoScored, the attacker made 39 starts and made two substitute appearances in the Championship for Leeds this season, scoring 12 goals and providing 12 assists in the process.
During the 2017-18 campaign, the 34-year-old made 34 starts and seven substitute appearances in the Championship for the Whites, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists in the process, according to WhoScored.
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