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Ben Parker has suggested that Raphinha could be in the frame to make his first Leeds United start on Sunday, as Premier League football resumes after the international break.

The Yorkshire giants host Arsenal this weekend at Elland Road and it’s a pivotal league match considering their recent results.

Marcel Bielsa’s side were beaten 4-1 against both Crystal Palace and Leicester City earlier in November, which was a big reality check for many after an impressive start to life back in the Premier League.

The Whites will be desperate to hit back when they face Arsenal, who are currently just two points above them in the table.

Parker has mentioned summer signing Raphinha as somebody who he could be in line to get an opportunity against Arsenal.

The 23-year-old winger has been eased into action by manager Bielsa and he’s played just three games so far, but did come on as a half-time substitute against Palace and showed some bright moments.

“Raphinha looked good when he came on against Crystal Palace. He looked sharp,” Parker told LS11.

“It wouldn’t just for me be Raphinha for Helder Costa, he could take Jack Harrison’s place, he could play in the number 10 role he could easily play there. I think he’s got a good case, I wouldn’t be surprised if he does start [against Arsenal],”

TBR’s View:

Raphinha has had to be patient since his summer arrival from French club Rennes, but he’s a skilful attacker that could inject something extra in the final third for Leeds and he was a £17million (BBC) signing.

The left-footed Brazilian usually plays on the right where he cuts infield, but can be deployed in a central playmaker role or even on the opposite flank on the left.

He scored nine goals and managed five assists last season in all competitions for Rennes, which is why he could be a secret weapon that Leeds still have up their sleeve and he could be a surprise inclusion for Arsenal.