Pablo Hernandez showed his quality for Leeds once again last night.
Pablo Hernandez was close to his best as Leeds United reclaimed their place at the top of the Championship last night.
The Spaniard inspired Leeds to a 2-0 win over Ipswich and demonstrated why he has been so keenly missed in recent weeks.
Hernandez had been battling an injury which caused him to miss the whole of September and now it looks like he is back to his best.
The playmaker has three assists so far this season, just shy of the Championship leader Conor Hourihane who has five.
Hernandez’s impact is measured far beyond just his individual data. Leeds’ overall level of performance increases when he is on the pitch.
He gives a confidence to his teammates and brings Leeds’ attackers into the game more. It’s as though he was born to play under manager Marcelo Bielsa.
There is a sense among Leeds fans watching him play that they are very fortunate to see a player of his quality shining at Elland Road.
At 33, it’s unclear how long Hernandez will retain his high level of play, but for now Leeds fans are determined to savour it.
How this season goes will go some way to defining Hernandez’s legacy at Leeds.
The Whites are top of the league after 14 games, with another 32 remaining.
If Hernandez can continue to inspire Leeds to finish in first or win promotion, he will go down as one of their greatest ever signings.
Bought on the cheap from Qatari side Al Sadd, Hernandez has been a bargain.
Greatness and a place in Leeds history is there for the taking. If he can’t quite help Leeds reach the Premier League, then he will be another nearly man; admired like Luciano Becchio, an excellent player who would ultimately fall short in achieving the club’s goal.
Hernandez can end up being remembered even more fondly if supporters’ dream scenario continues to play out.
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