International media impressed by ‘great’ Leeds United loanee Marc Roca after display v Aris Limassol
Leeds United loanee Marc Roca played the full 90 minutes as Real Betis breezed past Aris Limassol with a 4-1 win on Thursday 10 November.
The Spaniard scored the third goal of his loan spell in the closing stages of the match as he continued his impressive start to life with Betis, as they moved a step closer to qualification for the knockout stages of the Europa League.
Roca’s start with Betis has earned him plenty of praise from pundits and supporters, with reports already emerging that a potential permanent transfer could be on the cards [Mucho Deporte, 25 October]. International media outlets were similarly impressed by the defender’s display against the Cypriot side.
Spanish outlet El Desmarque (9 November) was happy with Roca, awarding him a 7/10 rating. They wrote: “Regular midfielder, central again out of necessity and forward role in the third goal with great definition.
“Correct, although it is clear that it is not his job, as a defender.”
At his best
It is becoming increasingly obvious that Roca isn’t a bad player, but rather isn’t particularly well equipped to flourish in the Premier League as he continues to go from strength to strength not only in La Liga but also in European football.
His performance against Aris Limassol on Thursday was the latest in a recent spell of excellent displays as although he had a quieter night in defence, he found the net with his only shot in the match. A left-footed effort following a second-half corner.
The 26-year-old made two blocks in the game, as well as registering five clearances and four-ball recoveries as Betis dominated the clash. There was room for improvement out of possession as the Leeds United loanee only won one of his three ground duels and failed to win his only tackle.
Should Roca continue to go from strength to strength during his loan spell, it feels increasingly likely that Leeds and Betis could be inclined to make his loan switch permanent and should he continue to impress, the Whites could pocket a decent transfer fee for his services
It may not have worked out for the Spaniard as many had hoped at Elland Road, but there is still a chance the 26-year-old could manage to provide Leeds with another boost, should he leave permanently for a good fee.
In other Leeds United news, Liam Cooper has the perfect chance to save his Elland Road career after Farke’s latest injury update