Stephen Warnock has stated that Rodrigo can be a ‘frustrating’ player for Leeds United at times.
The former left-back added that when he is on song, then he can be a ‘genius on the ball’, as he told Football Focus.
During Patrick Bamford’s long injury lay-off, both Marcelo Bielsa and now Jesse Marsch have had to use different options for that number nine role.
From Daniel James to youngster Joe Gelhardt, the absence of their bonafide number nine has hurt them throughout the campaign.
Warnock touched upon Leeds missing Bamford’s presence in the team and the players that have been deployed in that role instead.
“When you look at the replacements,” said Warnock. “They have had Daniel James. He can’t hold the ball and wants to run in-behind.
“They have had Rodrigo play there. He is a frustrating player. Genius on the ball at times.
“Joe Gelhardt. More of a number ten and he’s young, so he doesn’t quite know the position against Premier League opposition, so you are always going to miss him (Bamford).
“You are also going to miss him from set-pieces. Both from a defensive and attacking standpoint because he’s such a huge presence.”
Well, even though Leeds have been without a spine for large parts of this season, they have still managed to churn out results.
It has been a difficult watch at times, including suffering some heavy defeats, both at home and away.
But, since Marsch arrived, someone like Rodrigo has stepped up, including scoring during his side’s 3-0 win at Watford over the weekend.
That was Rodrigo’s third goal in four Premier League matches – from opening the scoring against Norwich, equaliser at Wolves, or the second goal against Watford, they have been crucial goals from the player.
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