Rodrigo tipped for key role at Leeds after ’embarrassing’ development – Whelan
Noel Whelan has tipped Rodrigo Moreno to play a key role for Leeds United in the coming weeks after his ’embarrassment’ against Chelsea.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Whites forward said the 30-year-old will be “massively needed” if Patrick Bamford is sidelined for a period.
Rodrigo was brought on for the injured Patrick Bamford after 35 minutes of Leeds’ 0-0 draw with Chelsea at Elland Road on Saturday.
The substitute was replaced by Mateusz Klich 44 minutes later, much to his dismay.
The Spain international is yet to start for Marcelo Bielsa’s side since his return from a groin injury earlier this month.
However, Whelan suggested Rodrigo could be in line for a start against Fulham if Bamford is ruled out.
“It is embarrassing when you have been subbed off after having coming on,” he told Football Insider. “It is all about the ego of a player.
“You cannot question Bielsa though because Rodrigo might be playing the out-and-out striker role now if Bamford is out for a period.
“I think Rodrigo will be massively needed in the coming weeks.”
Speaking on Rodrigo’s withdrawal against Chelsea, Bielsa said: “I value a lot the effort he put in when he was on the field because it is an effort that is above what he is actually capable of at this moment in time.
“The contribution of Rodrigo was above what he is actually capable of doing at this moment. More than apologising to him, I have to thank him for his contribution on the pitch.”
In other news, a top pundit claims Leeds United would be ‘stupid not to’ explore signing Van Aanholt after a big development.