Former Premier League defender Alan Hutton says Leeds United star Raphinha is a 'nightmare' due to his versatility up front, commenting after the winger left Elland Road 'on crutches' last weekend.
The Lowdown: Raphinha shines all over
£28.8m-valued Raphinha (Transfermarkt) is usually a right winger, but he was used in a different role during the clash with Wolves last weekend.
The Brazil international was deployed in an attacking midfield position and, according to SofaScore, he was one of the best players on the pitch before he was substituted.
The Latest: Hutton praises Raphinha
Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton called Raphinha a nightmare due to his versatility and ability. He said:
"Yeah, he is. He’s a nightmare, isn’t he?
"Thank god I don’t need to play against players like that because he’s unbelievable. Not just performances for Leeds but for Brazil now.
"It would not surprise me if there are a lot of big teams looking at him because of what he brings.
"He’s a flair player but he works extremely hard for the team. I think that’s what everybody likes. It’s what Bielsa likes, the fans, everybody.
"They kind of buy into what he’s doing and he’s got so much quality on the ball which is just fantastic to see. He can play a number of positions, which is brilliant.
"Things are looking good for him, aside from getting taken off and leaving the stadium on crutches. He says he’s okay. He’s a fantastic player."
The Verdict: Wonderful
The 24-year-old is a wonderful footballer who has been a fantastic signing for the Whites since making the switch from Rennes last summer. All in all, he has nine goals and nine assists in 39 matches, developing into the Yorkshire outfit's most dangerous attacking threat, and for however long he is out Marcelo Bielsa will be missing a crucial piece of his puzzle.
If he can play in more than one position, that is something that can only be a positive for Leeds too. Of course, that is no doubt going to attract interest from a number of clubs across Europe - the Whites will be hoping he wants to continue his journey at Elland Road.
In other news, this man has been suggested as a potential Bielsa replacement.