Opinion: What few are currently saying about Leeds forward Rodrigo

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Rodrigo was one of the players linked with leaving Leeds United during the January transfer window, with reports claiming that Barcelona were offered the chance to sign the forward.

The 30-year-old did not have the easiest first-half of the campaign. He only managed to score two goals in the Premier League. And he continued to struggle to live up to expectations following his move for a club-record fee.

There were times when he was outstanding. Jermaine Beckford suggested at one stage that his form had been brilliant. But there was still a sense that Rodrigo had not proved to be the signing Leeds hoped for.

Unsurprisingly however, the Spaniard stayed in January. And he has now completed 90 minutes in Leeds’ last four games.

It has been a torrid time for Marcelo Bielsa’s men. They have taken one point from those fixtures. And they sit very much on the periphery of the relegation battle.

There are real concerns for the rest of the campaign, particularly with Liverpool and Tottenham up next.

But there have been a handful of positives. And one of those that has really gone under the radar has been the recent form of Rodrigo.

In fact, he has arguably been Leeds’ best player over the last three games.

Rodrigo brilliant at time when Leeds desperately need some inspiration

He was involved in all three of their goals in the stunning 3-3 draw with Aston Villa. And no player did more to try and drag Leeds back into the game at Everton.

He hit the crossbar twice. And he looked to be one of the few players with the desire to try and force an unlikely turnaround.

He did inspire a turnaround on Sunday, scoring Leeds’ first against Manchester United. Of course, there was an element of fortune attached. But he deserved that slice of luck after proving so unfortunate at Goodison Park.

Ultimately, it was not enough to help Leeds earn a share of the points. But he was exceptional in the number 10 position.

And while plenty of fans may want Joe Gelhardt to start against Liverpool on Wednesday, just as many will be hoping that Rodrigo is not the man to make way.

Instead, they will want him sat behind Gelhardt in the hope that he can keep his current run of form going.