Ben Parker has praised Leeds United star Rodrigo for channeling his “inner David Batty” on Tuesday night against Leicester at Elland Road, during his analysis on LS11. The Spaniard started alongside Patrick Bamford as a no.10.
Rodrigo, 32, started his third League game in a row on Tuesday night as Leeds looked to beat Leicester at home in a crucial game at the bottom of the Premier League. He lasted 60 minutes on the night, after chasing every loose ball.
Whether it be clattering into Leicester player, or making a tackle and volleying the ball into the crowd – the Leeds fans loved what they were seeing from Rodrigo. But it was not enough and Leeds look like it is all against them.
Ex-Leeds defender Parker has applauded Rodrigo for his work ethic against Leicester, likening him to Leeds icon hardman Batty – who was known for his love of a good tackle. He says it was that passion the Leeds fans wanted.
“Rodrigo set the tone, in the first half in particular,” Parker said. “He channeled his inner David Batty, going around just smashing people. Booted the ball into the crowd, gave it a massive cheer. That’s what we needed.
“Everyone was so nervous before the game, but we needed passion and chasing second balls – it matters. We needed that and we saw it from Rodrigo,” Parker added on LS11, on Thursday following the draw with Leicester.
Parker has praised Leeds star Rodrigo for channeling ‘inner Batty’
Rodrigo was superb. He might not have contributed enormously to the attack, but that work rate is just what Leeds fans love to see. In the midst of a fight against relegation, it was crucial fans were on side – and Rodrigo did that.
It could have been so different. Patrick Bamford could have flicked in his golden chance and a win would have seen us sit four points clear of the relegation zone right now. Leicester would have 28, we’d have 32. Instead, it’s one.
Forest beat Brighton on Wednesday and it means they have gone level on points with us. We do remain in 16th place, and it does still stay in our hands – but our run in is tough. We simply must beat Bournemouth this weekend.
