Former Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes that Pablo Hernandez’s possible return from injury this weekend is a ‘huge boost’ for Marcelo Bielsa’s side ahead of their clash against Sheffield Wednesday.
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Leeds have no option but to focus on their league form following their FA Cup exit to Arsenal on Monday, with Bielsa hinting prior to that match that Hernandez could return to training ahead of schedule, along with striker Tyler Roberts.
While Bielsa remained unsure of exactly when Hernandez would return to the pitch, Robinson is under no illusion of the positive impact his comeback could have on the team.
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Robinson was beaming ahead of the Spaniard’s return to fitness as Leeds look to press home their advantage at the top of the Championship.
He said: “It will be a huge boost for Leeds to have Hernandez back, although I don’t think they’ve struggled too much without him – they scored five at Birmingham.
“Saying that though, Hernandez is a huge player for Leeds, he’s very important to what they do and he seems to be an automatic pick for the manager.
“To have a player like Hernandez coming back when other teams are losing players through injuries and suspensions, it’s always a huge boost.
“He’s a massive player and this is such an important time of the season for Leeds.”
Recent results may make Hernandez appear to be one of the team’s most influential figures, with Leeds’ record showing a contrast between when he is available and when he is injured.
To their credit, Leeds have managed to stay unbeaten in the three league games since losing Hernandez early on in the defeat to Fulham last month.
The 34-year-old had previously returned from six games out (of which Leeds won just two) due to a calf problem, to lead the team to seven consecutive victories with only Cardiff’s incredible comeback at Elland Road preventing them from stretching that run.
So perhaps his return will be extremely welcome as they approach the business end of the season with Leeds potentially 20 games away from the Premier League, starting Saturday.
Leeds fans, would promotion be possible without Hernandez? Let us know what you think below!
