Pablo Hernandez has predominantly played on the right of Leeds United’s midfield in recent times.
If Leeds are going to put their disappointing form behind them and reach the play-off final, you would imagine that Pablo Hernandez is going to have to produce some of the magic that has seen him end the Championship season having reached double figures for goals and assists.
The Spaniard has been outstanding, potentially enjoying the best year of his career to date. If anyone is going to inspire Leeds to produce a performance that mirrors their two previous displays against Derby, it may well be Hernandez.
But there are some supporters who appear to believe that the former Swansea man is more likely to make that devastating impact if Marcelo Bielsa decides to deploy the 34-year-old in the number 10 role, rather than out on the right.
The central role behind the striker has been problematic at times for Leeds this term. Samu Saiz’s form and departure in January opened the door for Tyler Roberts. And although the Wales international has been sensational at times, his performances have dipped occasionally as well.
Roberts will miss the first-leg against Derby due to injury, and it would be no surprise if Bielsa decided to stick with the midfield three of Kalvin Phillips, Adam Forshaw and Mateusz Klich, with Jack Harrison and Pablo Hernandez occupying the wide areas.
But perhaps using Hernandez in that central role – maybe with Jack Clarke coming in on the right wing – could help leave Leeds with the lethal touch that has largely deserted them in recent weeks.
Leeds’ right flank has been one of the few success stories of recent months, with Luke Ayling back to his best and Hernandez rarely having a quiet game. But with Derby the team that boasts the momentum heading into this weekend, perhaps Bielsa should think about rolling the dice.
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