Leeds United ace Junior Firpo goes from zero to hero – ‘They almost worship him’
Leeds United star Junior Firpo is almost worshipped in the Dominican Republic after going from “zero to hero” with his international side, journalist Kyle Newbould has proclaimed.
The talented defender has had an excellent season for Leeds in the Championship and is lauded just as much by supporters of the country he represents at international level.
Firpo made several youth appearances for Spain before changing his allegiances to the Dominican Republic and during a trip to the country, Leeds reporter Newbould was blown away by the support Firpo receives.
In a story reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post (4 November), Newbould wrote: “They love their national team, and they love Junior Firpo. In fact, they almost worship him. Since making the switch from Spain, Firpo has gone from zero to hero at international level.
“Upon revealing to various hotel staff members that I was from Leeds, the response was almost inevitable. ‘Ah Leeds United? Junior Firpo!’. Marcelo Bielsa was mentioned on occasion but it was almost always Junior Firpo. They absolutely love Firpo.
“They love how proud he is to represent them, they love how he stood up to Concacaf over the state of pitches in the region and, like a lot of Leeds fans, they just love how fun he is.”
Junior Firpo has been instrumental for Leeds United
Under the stewardship of Daniel Farke, Leeds are making good progress in their push to achieve promotion back to the Premier League and Firpo has been a key figure among that.
The left-back has featured in all but one of the Whites’ Championship games and has impressed on a consistent basis.
Arguments can certainly be made for him being the best full-back in the division.
The former Barcelona defender has an impressive four-goal contributions so far this campaign. Firpo is on course to beat his best offensive return for the Whites where he registered seven assists in their previous Championship season.
Perhaps the only negative for Firpo is that his contract at Elland Road is set to expire next summer and his importance to the side has to be considered before any decision on his future is made.
While Leeds may be tempted by the prospect of selling him in January to prevent losing him for free six months later, Farke will undoubtedly be looking to retain his services with him being one of the most important players at the club.
In other Leeds United news, Brenden Aaronson has said the fact that Whites fans have been “pushing him” this season has helped him feel more welcome at Elland Road since his return.
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