Former Leeds United shot stopper Paul Robinson has told Rodrigo he must step up to the mark for the Whites this season. The Spaniard scored a hat-trick at Elland Road in their penultimate friendly of the summer as Jesse Marsch's side ran out 6-2 winners against Cagliari.
The 31-year-old was a mainstay of Marcelo Bielsa's side during the Argentinian's tenure but he could drop down the pecking order under Marsch after an influx of new players. However, Robinson claims that the club-record signing now needs to step up to the plate following Raphinha's departure, with concerns around Patrick Bamford's fitness.
“Rodrigo has got to step up to the mark,” Robinson told MOT Leeds News. “I still think he has unfulfilled potential at Leeds. He’s fallen short.
TAKE PART: Squad concerns, new arrivals, Jesse Marsch approval - 'The Big Leeds United Forum'
“He got three goals against Cagliari – it was outstanding from him – but he’s got to do it where it matters in the Premier League. Whether he plays up front if Patrick’s[Bamford] not fit or whether he plays in behind, he’s got to do more than he did last season.
"He’s got to offer more goals and more assists. Raphinha's gone so Leeds need more attacking threat from Rodrigo but now he’s under pressure from the new signings.
“He’s not guaranteed to play every week, he’s got to get himself in the side.”
READ NEXT
Leeds United's winners and losers of pre-season including Bamford, Klich and Firpo
Leeds United duo's contract celebrations sum up why supporters so excited about future
A penalty clause and the strange Barcelona request Leeds United rejected in Raphinha move
Declan Rice 'has never seen anything like Elland Road' as midfielder hails Leeds United supporters
Leeds United midfielder Sam Greenwood sets his targets after signing new deal
