Norwich stars quaking in their boots at Raphinha update from Leeds – ex-manager
Alex McLeish has claimed the Norwich City defenders will be quaking in their boots at the thought of facing Raphinha and Leeds United this weekend.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Scotland manager admitted the “brilliant” 24-year-old is so often the “difference” for Marcelo Bielsa’s men.
Raphinha was forced off through injury against Wolves and was absent for the League Cup defeat against Arsenal.
However, as quoted by BBC Radio Leeds’ Adam Pope, (26th October), Marcelo Bielsa confirmed Raphinha, along with Jamie Shackleton, should be fit for Sunday’s visit to Carrow Road.
The Brazilian winger’s absence was caused by a forceful tackle from Romain Saiss.
As well as Raphinha, Leeds have been without the likes of Patrick Bamford and Luke Ayling in recent weeks.
McLeish insisted the newly-capped Brazil international’s return would be a major boost for the Yorkshire giants.
McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He’s brilliant. He puts the fear of death into defenders when he gets on one of these mazy runs and he’s got space to run at them.
“He is a key player for Leeds United. When you lose your key players, you start dropping results and dripping points. That’s no surprise.
“Those guys of quality make the little difference just to get them up the table a little bit.”
Raphinha is the Whites’ top scorer this season with three goals in eight Premier League appearances.
Five other players, including Bamford and Rodrigo, have scored just once.
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