Leeds United employee makes ‘huge’ claim after ‘incredible’ Raphinha training ground reveal
Noel Whelan has heralded Raphinha’s return to fitness for Leeds United ahead of Saturday’s “huge” clash against Southampton.
The former Leeds striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, was over the moon to hear the 24-year-old has been firing on all cylinders at Thorp Arch.
Speaking at his press conference on Thursday (31 March), Marsch revealed Raphinha was “incredible” in a training ground test game this week and branded the Brazilian a “massive talent”.
Raphinha missed Leeds’ game against Wolves and his country’s international games due to a positive Covid test.
Whelan insisted the Whites “need” the likes of the Brazilian to boost their survival hopes this season.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “You’re talking about big players, Kalvin, Raphinha. We need these players back.
“It’s such a big game for us. These home games that we have left this season, are going to be absolutely crucial. Yes, two good wins on the bounce but you don’t take your foot off the gas here.
“You’re not too far away from slipping back and being in that problematic position again. This game is huge for us, in my opinion. This is a really, really big game.
“You need players like Raphinha. If he’s at it, he’s unplayable, we know that. The fact that he’s had a good spell of training, as well as a test match in this time over the two weeks, will hopefully put his fitness levels back up to maximum.
“There’s no doubt about it, after two weeks, after two wins, these players will be raring to get out there again. They’ll know what magnitude this game actually is for us.”
Raphinha has scored nine goals and contributed three assists in 23 Premier League games this term.
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