Marcelo Bielsa has hailed the impact of ‘gifted’ Raphinha ahead of Wednesday night's battle of the Brazilians.
The 25-year-old Leeds winger has scored eight Premier League goals so far this season and attracted interest from a string of clubs in last month’s transfer window, including West Ham.
But the Whites were able to keep hold of Raphinha and he will line up at Villa Park tonight against countryman Philippe Coutinho, who he started alongside in Brazil’s World Cup qualifier in Ecuador last month.
Philippe Coutinho (left) and Raphina (right) will go from Brazil team-mates to club rivals
‘If there’s a player that I haven’t influenced, it’s Raphinha,’ said Leeds boss Bielsa when asked how he has improved his talisman.