Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink raves about Leeds United star Raphinha

Tue 9 February 2021 8:45, UK

that Raphinha’s defensive ability and work off the ball is “refreshing to see”, given that it is not normally seen from a player that is as direct as the Leeds United winger.

Raphinha, who turned 24 in December, has been a sensational signing for Leeds. Since joining the club from French side Rennes last summer, the Brazilian has had a hand in eight goals during his 17 Premier League outings this season.

Scoring four and creating four more, the Brazilian was unlucky not to find the back of the net on Monday night – though Patrick Bamford profited. His shot was superbly saved by Vicente Guaita, and Bamford followed up to double his side’s lead.

Bamford’s 12th of the season came after Jack Harrison’s deflected effort flew into the net via Gary Cahill – but Raphinha was the star man on Monday night. Hasselbaink has commented on the summer addition, claiming his work rate is impressive.

Leeds United v Crystal Palace - Premier League

(Photo by Tim Keeton – Pool/Getty Images)

“What he brings to the team, he’s very good going forward but also defensively he does a lot of work. We give him a lot of credit for his tricks and how direct he is, and how many assists he finds. But he also does a lot of work off the ball,”

“His moment of skill, Cahill is not a defender to joke with either. You can see that he is enjoying his football, he is a very important person for the Leeds team. He makes space off the ball, he is willing to run without the ball – it is refreshing to see.”

TBR’s view – Can Leeds keep a hold of Raphinha?

Andrea Radrizzani, the Leeds owner, has recently claimed in an interview that he wants to follow Leicester City’s model – a club that sell big and bring in young, exciting players allowing them to climb season after season.

Leicester have sold Harry Maguire, Ben Chilwell, Riyd Mahrez and more for big fees. If a big offer for Raphinha comes in in the summer, perhaps in the region of three times the £17million Leeds paid for him – then surely a bid could be accepted?

(Photo by JON SUPER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

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Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink raves about Leeds United star Raphinha

TBR’s view – Can Leeds keep a hold of Raphinha?