Leeds United star Pablo Hernandez has spoken about the club’s push for promotion and season so far, as the Whites look to return to the Premier League.
A dramatic weekend of action saw Leeds reclaim second spot from Sheffield United after battling from behind twice to beat Millwall at Elland Road, while the Blades suffered a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Bristol City.
Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa has his say on who could finish in the Championship top two
That has left the fate of Marcelo Bielsa’s side back in the Whites' hands again heading into the final seven games of the season, where Hernandez and company hold a two-point lead over the Blades and sit five points behind league leaders Norwich City.
Hernandez has been a key part of Bielsa’s side this season and wants to finish the season on a high, admitting earning promotion would eclipse the League Cup he won with Swansea City and finishing as runners-up in the Copa Del Rey with Getafe.
“It has been really positive. All around the club, there’s this excitement to end 15 years away from the Premier League. It feels so close. This city deserves a Premier League team. It’d be the best achievement of my career if we go up,” he told FourFourTwo.
“Bielsa looks after every detail. We all do everything together. Marcelo knows how to make a team, you create a family. He’s just loco for football.”
Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa confirms Kemar Roofe return ahead of Birmingham City clash
He also discussed the changes he has had to make in his playing style due to his age, as he is set to turn 34 before the close of the season.
“I’m the old guy. I can’t dominate one-on-one situations, I’m not as explosive as I was, but with my experience I can find space. What you lose with one hand, you gain with the other," he said.
“The secret is to receive the ball with your head up, looking for the next pass before the ball is at your feet. In this league, if you have to think about what you’ll do next, you’re dead.”
One particular highlight of Hernandez’s fantastic season with the Whites this term was scoring after just 16 seconds as they dismantled promotion rivals West Bromwich Albion, which he believes is a reflection of the team's ethos.
The key events which may shape Leeds United's promotion race this weekend
“It reflects what this team is all about. We press constantly and we want to rob the opposition as high as we can. The stats don’t lie, we’ve won every time we’ve scored first this season.”
