Whelan: Leeds fans ‘fearing the worst’ after latest on Raphinha ‘bitter blow’
Leeds United fans will have been “fearing the worst” when Raphinha was hauled off through injury against Wolves on Saturday, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Whites hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old is a “leader” for the Yorkshire club.
As quoted by Leeds Live after yesterday’s League Cup defeat against Arsenal (October 26th), Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa said he “thinks” Raphinha will be available to take on Norwich City on Saturday.
The former Rennes winger was not involved in the matchday squad at the Emirates Stadium.
Raphinha limped off just after the interval last weekend following a robust challenge from Wolves defender Romain Saiss.
After the 1-1 draw, he took to Instagram to confirm the injury was “nothing serious”.
Whelan insisted Leeds United were dealt a “bitter blow” when the industrious Raphinha was withdrawn.
“I think everyone was fearing the worst when he went down,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He was the one taking the game by the scruff of the neck and making things happen.
“He is that leader and that trigger for Leeds, he was working so hard throughout the game to try and force a way back for Leeds.
“It was a really bitter blow when he went off.
“It’s a massive boost to hear that it’s nothing serious.”
Raphinha has netted three goals in eight Premier League appearances this term.
The winger made his Brazil debut earlier this month, scoring two and assisting two in his first three Selecao games.
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