For the first time in three years, Leeds’ Player of the Year award surely won’t be going to Pablo Hernandez.
The Spaniard made history at the end of last season, becoming the first player ever to win three consecutive Player of the Year awards at Elland Road, but after a reduced role this season, it’s hard to see him retaining his title.
So, who will get the crown this term? Well, there are certainly more than a few candidates at Leeds this season.
Patrick Bamford leads the charts in terms of both goals and assists this term, while Luke Ayling has played his way into England contention this term.
However, for our money, we think Leeds’ standout performer this season has been Raphinha.
The Brazilian has brought something special to Elland Road. His flair, dribbling ability and wand of a left foot has made him a joy to watch this season.
Raphinha has been a breath of fresh air, and while Bamford has been the one putting the ball in the net, he’s been the one making headlines.
Perhaps the best description we’ve had of him was from Luke Ayling, who described him as ‘unbelievable’ earlier this month, and that’s exactly what he is.
The winger has attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool and Bayern Munich, and to be honest, it’s not surprising to see those types of clubs sniffing around him.
Raphinha has perfectly embodied everything that makes Marcelo Bielsa’s team so brilliant, and while he’s been a perennial contender for the Signing of the Season tag, we have to think he’s the frontrunner for Leeds’ Player of the Year award come the end of the season.
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