Leeds star lauded for stepping into Raphinha’s shoes, as Whites complete ‘magnificent’ win over Chelsea

Micah Richards heaped praise on Leeds forward Rodrigo after he continued his great form with a goal against Chelsea, as Jesse Marsch’s side completed an ‘absolutely magnificent’ victory.

Rodrigo opened his account for the season by scoring in their 2-1 win over Wolves on August 6. And he got both of Leeds’ goals in their 2-2 draw with Southampton last weekend.

The Spaniard, who arrived at Leeds in a £26million deal from Valencia two years ago, was at it again today (Sunday). He caused the Chelsea centre-backs all sorts of problems as Leeds ran out 3-0 winners at Elland Road.

Edouard Mendy gifted Brenden Aaronson his first Leeds goal in the 33rd minute by failing to clear in the box. This allowed the American to steal and tap into an open goal.

Rodrigo doubled Leeds’ advantage four minutes later by connecting with a Jack Harrison free-kick to head into the far corner.

And Marsch’s men had a third goal by the 69th minute. Dan James put in a cross and Rodrigo did well to keep the chance alive by playing the ball into Harrison’s path. The winger volleyed home on his left foot to ensure all three points remained in West Yorkshire.

Things went from bad to worse for Chelsea in the final 10 minutes as Kalidou Koulibaly picked up a second yellow card for pulling substitute Joe Gelhardt back. The Blues defender was sent off, giving Thomas Tuchel a selection headache for Chelsea’s next match.

Analysing the game on Sky Sports, former striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink said:  “Leeds did ever so well, very brave, they pressed from the front and controlled the game. I think Leeds were absolutely magnificent today.”

Rodrigo receives Micah Richards praise

Richards then hailed goalscorer Rodrigo for filling the void Raphinha left when he joined Barcelona.

“Four goals in three now, he’s absolutely on fire,” Richards said. “He’s a man playing with confidence.

“When Raphinha goes, you’re looking for someone to step up to the plate and he really has. Not just his goal, he got an assist as well and his whole game. He pressed from the front, absolutely brilliant.”