Phil Hay says Leeds star could start against Arsenal, after plan executed during break

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Phil Hay has told his Athletic podcast that Leeds United star Rodrigo could be handed his first Premier League start since January after ankle surgery – with the Whites focusing on getting him back to full fitness during the break.

Rodrigo, 32, has been on fire for Leeds this season. He has scored 13 goals, in 24 games. Only 18 of those 24 have been starts. He came off the bench at Wolves last time out to score our fourth, finishing superbly past Jose Sa.

The 27-time Spain star has now had the time to improve his fitness over the last couple of weeks. While Leeds have picked up injuries over the last month in the form of Tyler Adams, Max Wober and Willy Gnonto – Rodrigo is fit again.

Javi Gracia spoke about Rodrigo – and Luis Sinisterra – in his press conference. He says that the Leeds duo are not in the “best condition”, but clearly Rodrigo will be fitter and more ready than at Wolves. Hay says he could start.

“The plan through these two weeks was to get Rodrigo up to a point where he could start, so it might be that he is in the frame from the outset against Arsenal on Saturday,” Hay said, when discussing who will start against Arsenal.

Hay: Leeds star Rodrigo could start for first time since ankle surgery

Rodrigo has been superb this season. Patrick Bamford started at Wolves and his form has been up and down, with the one-time England star back from his injury nightmares. But, Rodrigo is clearly the better option – if he is 100%.

What do you do if Rodrigo is at 80%? Perhaps even less? Ultimately, starting Rodrigo and perhaps nicking a goal on the counter attack on Saturday is key and if Rodrigo can last 60 mins, then he has got to start. All eyes on Saturday.