Pundit believes Rodrigo is a ‘victim’ of his own versatility as Leeds struggle to find their form

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30 March 2023, 07:15 yayınlandı

Leeds United now find themselves hovering just above the relegation zone as they are now winless across their last seven matches.

Jesse Marsch’s side played out a frustrating 2-0 loss to fellow strugglers Leicester City in midweek. The result leaves Leeds on nine points and only outside of the relegation zone on goal difference.

They have now lost their last three matches and the pressure is starting to mount on Marsch.

Goals have clearly been a problem for his side as of late as they have only scored one goal in their last four matches.

In total, Leeds have scored 11 goals this season at an average of 1.1 goals per game. If they were to continue with the same scoring ratio, they would end the season having scored just 41 goals.

Rodrigo has been a hotly debated player since his arrival at Elland Road in 2020.

The Spanish international has struggled to find consistency at Leeds and Paul Robinson believes his versatility has been an issue for him.

The former Leeds goalkeeper explained (via Amazon Prime): “Speaking to him in the week, I interviewed him in the week, you get the feeling that he loves playing that number 9 role.

“He loves playing in a settled position rather than dropping deep.

“He enjoys playing as a 9. He came to Leeds initially as a 9, and I think he has been unlucky because Patrick, when he is fit, he plays, and he has been a victim of being able to play in midfield in an advanced role.”

Rodrigo had started the season well with four goals in his first three appearances. An injury then derailed his season and he has struggled to recapture his form since.

The Spanish forward was brought off the bench in midweek against Leicester, but ultimately had little impact.

He has now failed to find the back of the net in his last seven appearances and frustrations around him are growing within the Leeds fan base.

After the Leicester game he explained: “The board, we are totally unified. That’s not an issue. One of the things I saw before I came was the way the board supported Marcelo for many years. I can only say I felt that same support.

“Everybody’s p****d off. We’re all feeling like we’re letting ourselves down but we’ve got to be ready to stop the bleeding and fight for each other on Sunday (against Fulham).

“It’s the first time I’ve heard that from fans. They have the right. I’m here doing what I can to help.

“It’s nothing against the fans, maybe I should go over to them next time no matter what, I need to say sorry to them. I know I’m supported by the club.”

Next up for Leeds is a test against Fulham at Elland Road this weekend.

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