Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp believes that Rodrigo's goal in Leeds United's 2-1 defeat against Manchester City could be pivotal for the Whites' survival prospects under veteran boss Sam Allardyce.
Ilkay Gundogan's impressive first-half brace was enough to see off Allardyce's men on his United managerial debut, despite Leeds pulling one back five minutes from time courtesy of a sharp finish from Rodrigo.
Encouragingly, though, there was a distinct essence of resilience and organisation on show at the Etihad Stadium, elements of performance that had plagued 'Big Sam's' predecessors, Marcelo Bielsa, Jesse Marsch and Javi Gracia.
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The visitors were subsequently rewarded for their efforts when Rodrigo pounced on some sloppy City defending and fired past Ederson to restore hope.
And Redknapp explained to Sky Sports post-match just how important the goal could be, with goal difference having proven to be an important factor during relegation battles.
"It could be pivotal this season and I think it was so important that they didn’t get beaten heavily - that could not happen," he outlined.
"When they went two-nil down, they (City) had a lot of chances and when the penalty happened, it all changed very quickly and they can take a lot from this."
Redknapp was also quick to praise the spirit of Leeds squad, adding: "It shows something to hang on to.
"He [Allardyce] made a big call with the goalkeeper and he came in and did well, they will look at that as something to go on for the away games and the home games. Rodrigo coming on as a good substitution, that will give him a lot of confidence."
Ex-City defender Micah Richards echoed such sentiments by claiming that the second-half display was one reminiscent of an Allardyce side.
"I thought they were disappointing in the first half, but in the second they galvanised that spirit and what the manager wants to bring to this team," Richards explained.
"It’s a loss but you can learn so much from it - they are coming away from the Etihad and thinking they could have nicked a draw in the end, and that will give them immense confidence going forward."
