Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Leeds Live
Leeds Live
Sport
Joe Donnohue

Leeds United news as Raphinha opens up on Ronaldinho relationship amid exciting U23s comparison

Raphinha on Ronaldinho links

Leeds United winger and playmaker Raphinha has been on media duty over the past few days, conducting Zoom interviews with national and international broadcasters, as well as the club's official channel.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Raphinha opened up on his start to life at Leeds, as well as his relationship with 40-year-old Brazilian legend Ronaldinho.

"Since I was little he was my greatest idol because of the way he played. The joy and spontaneity he played with on the pitch and the happiness that emanated from him - I always admired him for that.

"My dad was a childhood friend of his so we ended up being close. Because of the person he is, I've always been inspired by him both as a person and a player," he disclosed, speaking fondly of the World Cup winner.

How should Leeds approach this game against West Ham?

Drameh comparisons made

Leeds United U23s right-back Cody Drameh has drawn comparisons following yet another thoroughly professional outing with the table-topping U23s.

Leeds ran out 2-0 winners over Wolverhampton Wanderers U23s yesterday, making it ten wins in their last 11 games.

Drameh drew more and more praise from those watching on - including Marcelo Bielsa - with some fans suggesting he is the 'next Stuart Dallas', according to HITC.

Others suggested he was a closer foil for Luke Ayling, given their natural position.

Drameh signed last season from Fulham and has grown into a leading role with Leeds' U23s.

West Ham 'keeper crisis

Leeds United's next opponents West Ham United could have a goalkeeping crisis on their hands if first-choice stopper Lukasz Fabianski does not recover from injury in time for Monday's game.

Back-up goalkeeper Darren Randolph also picked up what appeared to be a recurrence of a thigh strain when replacing the Polish 'keeper, meaning David Moyes may have to field the untried Nathan Trott in the Hammers' Premier League clash.

Moyes will be keen to field as strong a side as possible, starting with his custodian, as they look to complete the double over leave and keep their European ambitions alive.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.