Victor Orta names the Leeds United ‘idol’ who he learns from every day

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Leeds United director of football Victor Orta has spoken highly of Pablo Hernandez, calling the Whites winger an “idol” of Elland Road, in conversation with Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo.

Hernandez is one of the most well-loved and talented players at Leeds, his exploits earning him a place in the hearts of the Elland Road faithful.

The Spaniard joined Leeds initially on a six-month loan from Qatari club Al-Arabi in August 2016 but has gone on to become an indispensable member of the Whites side.

The 34-year-old has 33 goals and 36 assists from 150 Leeds appearances and was the club’s player of the season in 2018-19 as they reached the Championship playoff semi-finals in Marcelo Bielsa’s first season in charge.

While Hernandez may not have hit the heady heights of last season this time round, he’s still been doing very well for the Whites, playing a part in their ascent to the top of the table prior to the football shutdown with six goals and six assists from 28 league appearances.

“Pablo here is an idol for his way of being and his professional attitude on and off the field,” Orta is quoted by Estadio Deportivo as saying. “I learn from him every day. He is an example and his ambition is what guides us many times. He is a reference.”

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Nobody can argue with what Orta has said about Hernandez, who is universally loved at Elland Road, and it’s little surprise that the club’s director of football admits he’s learning from him every day.

With his Leeds contract running until 2022, there is still plenty more to come from the evergreen Spaniard, and it would be just reward for him to finally get the chance to play in the Premier League with his beloved club.