Pundit delivers verdict on Raphinha reaction to being dropped by Leeds United boss Bielsa
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United...
Paul Robinson was happy with how Leeds Untied Raphinha responded after being dropped to the bench for the game against Manchester United on 20 February.
Marcelo Bielsa substituted Raphinha, 25, off at half-time against Everton and then failed to start him against the Red Devils at Elland Road on Sunday.
He came off the bench at the break and scored not too long after.
The Brazil international was back in the starting line-up for the 6-0 defeat at Liverpool on Wednesday but Robinson is happy to see he’s not let being dropped get to him.
“He came on for the second half and proved to everyone he is the player he is,” Robinson told MOT Leeds News.
“He didn’t sulk, he got on with it and I thought that for the early part of the second half, he changed the game along with Joe Gelhardt. They stretched the game.
“Raphinha obviously got his goal and he also showed creativity.
“It’ll be interesting to see how he reacts because he was dragged off at half-time against Everton and then he was left out of the team for the biggest game of the season at home against Manchester United.
“It would be a real test of his character to see how he react.”
Raphinha’s form has notably dropped since he returned from his winter international duty with Brazil.
He was one of the numerous players to really struggled in the hammering at Liverpool.
Speculation has lingered around Raphinha’s future at Leeds all season.
In other Leeds United news, a double-page spread in a newspaper says that it’s the beginning of the end for this Elland Road man.