Rodrigo’s importance to Leeds highlighted in his absence

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It already seems an incredibly long time ago that Rodrigo Moreno was marking his Leeds United debut by giving away the penalty that left the Whites falling to an opening day defeat.

There was a lot of excitement surrounding the 29-year-old heading into his debut. As noted by BBC Sport, Leeds broke their club record to sign the forward for £26 million during the summer.

Fortunately, Rodrigo – who is earning around £100,000-a-week, according to The Times – did not take long to win supporters around. His work-rate in the Carabao Cup tie against Hull impressed many. And he started to make a really notable impact in the Premier League from the win at Sheffield United.

His performance at Aston Villa last month was arguably his best yet. Rodrigo was superb in the number 10 role, and his pass in the build-up to Patrick Bamford’s third goal was the stand out moment in a stunning team move from Marcelo Bielsa’s side.

But it is perhaps only after Leeds’s latest result that the supporters have realised just how important Rodrigo has already become to the club’s fortunes.

The Whites were dealt a couple of blows ahead of their clash with Leicester City. Leeds confirmed on their official website that Raphinha had picked up an ankle injury.

Meanwhile, it was also announced that Rodrigo was going to miss the game. The Spain international is having to isolate after coming into close contact with a person who has tested positive for Covid-19.

Rodrigo’s absence hurts Leeds

In his absence, it proved to be a hugely disappointing evening. Leeds were beaten 4-1 by the Foxes at Elland Road.

In truth, a number of defensive errors really cost the home side. However, it is also fair to say that Leeds did not look like they were about to recreate the devastating attacking football that stunned Villa.

Pablo Hernandez arguably got better as the game went on. But, along with Jamie Shackleton, he struggled to pull any strings in the first-half.

It was also Patrick Bamford’s worst performance of the season so far. And it would be interesting to know whether not playing with Rodrigo proved a factor.

There have been more than a few glimpses of what Rodrigo is capable of this season. Unfortunately for Leeds, not having him available really hammered home how much he already brings.