‘He was incredible’: Marsch says one Leeds player blew him away in practice match they had this week

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Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch has revealed that he was fully impressed by Raphinha’s performance in a practice match they had earlier this week.

The Whites appeared to be in a spot of bother a few weeks ago and Marcelo Bielsa was shown the door as a result. In came Marsch and his primary objective was to keep the club in the Premier League.

The American’s first two games against Leicester City and Aston Villa ended in disappointing defeats. The worries for Leeds United fans began to grow, but back to back wins against Norwich and Wolves have pushed them up in the table a bit.

Leeds are currently 16th, seven points above the relegation zone. They should be confident of staying in the division now, especially if Raphinha continues to perform at his best.

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Jesse Marsch: Raphinha was incredible in a Leeds practice game this week

The Leeds United boss faced the media this afternoon ahead of his side’s game against Southampton this weekend.

Asked about Raphinha and his future, the American said, as per Leeds Live: “He was incredible in the 45-minute test match we had. (He’s a) massive talent and my challenge, despite all of the talk outside, is to have a relationship where we can focus on his development in helping the team while he is here.

“I haven’t had a word with him about Deco or Barcelona. It should be out there because is fantastic.

“I just want him to become the player I know he can be. Everyone here wants to enjoy the football he can play and of course, we want him to stay as long as possible.

“Fantastic player and very good person.”

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It must be really hard for players around Raphinha to concentrate when there’s so much talk about his future on a daily basis. It’s probably harder for the Brazilian, but Marsch has to find a way to keep him focused.

Raphinha is Leeds’ best player and he’s arguably among the top wingers in the Premier League at the moment. It is no surprise that there’s a lot of interest in him and Deco’s relationship with Barcelona could really push this deal through in the summer.

Leeds fans will be hoping they can retain Raphinha’s services beyond the end of the season but most supporters are already convinced he’ll be on his way out.

If the Brazilian gives his all and helps Leeds finish in a respectable position in the next two months, most Leeds fans won’t hold a grudge against him even if he does leave.

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