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News
Marcelo Bielsa comments on Pablo Hernandez’s lack of Leeds game time
Marcelo Bielsa has told his pre-Manchester United press conference – – that he understands any frustration that Leeds United playmaker Pablo Hernandez might have over his lack of game time this season.
Hernandez, 35, failed to feature in the five Premier League games before Wednesday night’s 5-2 over Newcastle United in which the Spanish veteran only came on for the final 10 minutes. In that brief cameo role, he laid on two excellent assists.
The former Valencia and Swansea man arguably scored the most-important goal of Bielsa’s reign so far, when he netted a late goal in a 1-0 win over his old club Swansea just after lockdown. But he has been on the sidelines this season.
Following his excellent, yet brief, appearance on Wednesday night against Newcastle, Bielsa was asked if he understands the frustration of those who struggle to get regular game time at Elland Road – especially those who are of Hernandez’s calibre.
“For any player it is difficult to be a substitute,” . “For the prestigious players and those who are idols it’s difficult. Not everyone can play. Nobody can be guaranteed their minutes.
“I was told it is normal for a player to be substituted to manifest their feelings in a bad way. It is common, for the player not to understand why he doesn’t play the minutes he wants. Of course, I understand the satisfaction and difficult to manage that.”
TBR’s view – Should Hernandez be given more of a go?
Before Wednesday night, there was a case for Hernandez to play wide left or even over Rodrigo. Jack Harrison had been inconsistent while Rodrigo is still adapting. Now, after the 5-2 win, Hernandez will have to accept a place on the bench.
The Spaniard laid on the assist for Harrison’s stunning strike, who was arguably man of the match for Leeds after his excellent assist for Rodrigo. The competition at Leeds has even seen Helder Costa miss out from the matchday squad on Wednesday.
While £19k-a-week () Hernandez deserves more game time, he is also somewhat more effective off the bench now at 35. He will have to learn to accept this.
