Rodrigo makes more than twice as many key passes as Coutinho for Leeds

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When Leeds United announced Marcelo Bielsa’s team for their clash with Aston Villa on Wednesday, you could sense a collective sigh amongst the fanbase at seeing Daniel James start up front with Rodrigo in behind as the 10.

James has had moments as a number nine. But he had not created that same level of excitement that Joe Gelhardt seems to summon just by threatening to be subbed onto the pitch.

Meanwhile, Rodrigo has arguably done his best work as a striker. He had not produced an assist this season. And many probably felt that Bielsa should have opted for Adam Forshaw in midfield, with Mateusz Klich pushing forward.

Ultimately however – and in a shock to no-one – Bielsa got the lineup completely spot on. James produced his best performance yet for Leeds, scoring twice.

And in truth, it would be hard to argue with those who made a similar claim about the performance from Rodrigo in the stunning 3-3 draw.

He was involved in all three goals for the visitors at Villa Park. The 30-year-old played in James for the opener. And it was his cross that was deflected towards the goalline before the Welshman headed it home to hand Leeds a lifeline.

Rodrigo was at it again in the second-half. He was involved in the corner routine that led to Diego Llorente smashing the ball home for the equaliser.

There was also an outrageous reverse pass into the path of Mateusz Klich when the score was 3-3. Klich unfortunately, could only hit his effort straight at Emi Martinez.

More key passes than Coutinho: Rodrigo superb in Leeds draw

Philippe Coutinho seemed to be the player that most were raving about following the game. And the Barcelona loanee was indeed absolutely outstanding for the home side. He scored one and set up two more.

However, Coutinho finished the game with two key passes, according to Whoscored. Two players managed more. Ollie Watkins contributed three.

But Rodrigo managed five.

It was not a perfect performance from the club-record signing. There were times when he appeared to go missing. But he was crucial to all three goals.

Without Rodrigo’s performance, Leeds may well have come away with nothing on a night where they deserved plenty.