'He's a steal' - Leeds United forward Tyler Roberts talks up Elland Road teammate after quick impact

The Whites return to Premier League action on Tuesday night against Southampton.
Leeds United winger Raphinha. Pic: GettyLeeds United winger Raphinha. Pic: Getty
Leeds United winger Raphinha. Pic: Getty

Tyler Roberts has described Leeds United teammate and summer signing Raphinha as a steal.

The Whites landed the 24-year-old winger from French club Stade Rennes on deadline day in September in a deal worth £17m.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Raphinha has scored four goals and recorded five assists in 16 Premier League starts this season following the switch from Ligue 1.

The Brazilian has impressed with his direct play and trickery after quickly dislodging fellow wide man Helder Costa in Marcelo Bielsa's starting line-up, earning plaudits for his fast adjustment to English football.

Roberts - who was handed his third start of the top flight campaign at Wolves on Friday night - has admitted that the Whites squad have been thoroughly impressed by the winger since his arrival in West Yorkshire.

"I think he's definitely a steal," Roberts told 5Live.

"You can see in training straight away that he's a typical Brazilian skilful player - but the work ethic that he brings as well is outstanding.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"He goes so well in our team. We are lucky to have him. I think he's worth a lot of money. He's definitely a great player. I enjoy working and playing with him."

The 22-year-old also reflected on his starting berth at Molineux last week's narrow 1-0 defeat.

Despite the loss and his mixed involvement so far this season, Roberts is enjoying life at Elland Road with opportunities at senior level hard to come by.

An injury to record signing Rodrigo and an impactful cameo at Arsenal saw the Wales international afforded a chance to impress from the beginning at Wolves.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"The manager gives us freedom to weave where we want but always with high energy and always trying to create chances," he added.

"We try to play the same way. He's an enjoyable manager to play under and I think we have adapted to it [Bielsa's style of play] really well.

"It's been a few years now and we can only keep trying to get better and better.

"It's been a stop-start season for me but I was pleased to get the 90 minutes under my belt - hopefully I can push on from here."