Rafael Benitez’s previous comments show just how good Vurnon Anita is

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Vurnon Anita has joined Leeds United following his departure from Newcastle United at the end of last season.

Earlier this month, Vurnon Anita joined Leeds United on a free transfer. The 28-year-old moved to Leeds following his departure from Newcastle United at the end of last season.

Anita had been on the books of Newcastle since 2012 and knows English football inside out.

Having played successfully in the Premier League, the Dutchman did his bit to help the Magpies get promoted from the Championship at the end of last season.

Given that the Netherlands international is 28 years of age, it is safe to say that he still has a fair few years left in him at the top level.

Not only do Leeds have signed a player who can make an instant impact in the team, but the West Yorkshire outfit have also got an experienced footballer who can play a key role for the side if they get promoted to the Premier League.

One of the main qualities of Anita is his versatility. The former Ajax star can operate as a full-back or as a defensive midfielder; he has even featured as a right-sided attacker. This would certainly help Leeds head coach Thomas Christiansen as the 2017-18 season progresses and give him options.

Back in August 2016, Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez made some comments about Anita that should encourage the Elland Road faithful even more. The former Liverpool and Chelsea boss highlighted the extent to which the Dutchman is versatile.

“I said the other day: everywhere,” Benitez told The Chronicle on August 3, 2016 when where Anita’s best position was. “I cannot give him the gloves because he’s not the size for being in goal!

“But he’s a professional and he was playing as a right full-back for Ajax, so he’s been playing as a full-back here, filling in at left full-back. I said the other day that he’s clever, he’s someone you can trust and I am very happy with him.”