Whelan makes ‘desperate’ Leeds claim after ‘massive’ Raphinha news pre-Wolves
Noel Whelan has claimed Leeds United have been handed a “massive” boost with Raphinha fit to face Wolves this weekend.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old winger was “desperately missed” against Southampton.
As confirmed at Marcelo Bielsa’s press conference, Raphinha is available for Saturday’s clash after sitting out the 1-0 defeat to the Saints.
The winger dazzled on international duty, scoring twice and contributing two assists across a World Cup qualifying triple-header.
He netted a brace against Uruguay just hours before kick-off against Southampton and missed out despite racing back to England from South America.
Whelan hailed the impact of the “vital” Whites star, branding him a player who can “make things happen” for the Yorkshire side.
He told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge: “It’s enough to give positives to the squad and the supporters knowing that we’ve got a very attacking, confident young player coming back from a really successful time with Brazil.
“We have desperately missed him. He is a player who can get things going for Leeds and make things happen.
“He can run in behind and we did not stretch Southampton enough last week. That is a massive positive attacking-wise.
“He will be vital against Wolves, he brings extra creativity and better link-up play with the front line.”
Raphinha has netted three goals in seven league games this term.
He joined Leeds United last summer from Stade Rennais for a reported £17million.
He has scored nine goals in 38 games for the club.
In other news, pundit tips Leeds United to complete striker signing after confirmed injury news.