Rodrigo victim of sucess of other Leeds United players – Paul Robinson
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.
Rodrigo has been a victim of the success of his Leeds United teammates and his versaility, according to Paul Robinson.
Since joining the Whites from Valencia last year for £27million, Rodrigo has struggled to settle down in the Premier League.
While many expected that the Spain international, 30, was being signed to replace Patrick Bamford as Marcelo Bielsa’s first-choice striker, he’s mainly been used in the midfield.
But even in recent matches while Bamford has been injured, Rodrigo has struggled to perform in what is most likely his favoured position.
In nine outings across all competitions this season, the ex-Valencia star has failed to score or assist a goal and his performances, other than perhaps his display away at Newcastle, have been sub-par.
Robinson feels that is down to a number of different issues culminating towards Rodrigo failing to impress.
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said: “He’s been unlucky, he’s also been a victim of success of some other players and he’s also been made to play in several different positions.
“When he first signed for Leeds, Rodrigo was the number nine for the Spain team but with the way he’s been in and out of the side and played different positions, he’s lost that place.
“It’s just not worked for him as of yet and we’ve not seen the best of him.
“When positions need filling, Bielsa turns to Rodrigo and he’s obviously seen as a direct replacement for Patrick Bamford. But you can’t expect someone to play a bit-part role and then hit the ground running.
“I’d like to know where he prefers to play himself but yes, we haven’t seen the best of him and I think being moved around different positions and being in and out of the side has added to the situation he’s in now.”
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