Leeds United fan favourite Pablo Hernandez should not play wide from now on

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Leeds United eventually fell short of their promotion goal in the Championship this season. A stretched squad struggled to cope toward the end of the season and play-off defeat to Derby County was the culmination of an exciting but ultimately rewardless campaign.

One player who starred throughout most of it was Pablo Hernandez. The former Spanish international had another excellent season at Elland Road. With 12 goals and 12 assists, it is no surprise Hernandez was again a fan favourite throughout the campaign.

However, he struggled in the final stages of the season. Indeed, he had not scored since March and produced no telling contributions in the six games of the campaign, including the play-offs.

With that in mind, some Leeds fans have suggested the 34-year-old’s time in the Leeds team is over.

That would certainly seem harsh. Back in November and December, the Spaniard was easily the best player in the Championship. But perhaps it is the position he plays in that is key.

Leeds have got used to seeing him on the right-wing, but he has struggled at times in his advancing years to provide his best from out wide.

Going forward, perhaps Hernandez should be considered exclusively as a playmaker, almost given a free-role behind the front-man. In that position, he can drift as he pleases and use his exquisite touch and vision to unlock defences. It is clearly Hernandez’s best position at this point in his career. To prolong his impact at Elland Road, it might have to be his only one.