'Like Leo Messi' - Leeds star likened to Barcelona talisman

A Brazilian winger is increasingly becoming an integral part of the Whites team in their first season in the English top-flight after 16 years.

Raphinha has earned an extraordinary comparison to Lionel Messi over his stunning strike in Leeds United’s clash against West Brom.

The 24-year-old unleashed a left-footed rocket in the top corner that left the goalkeeper floundering to score the final goal in his side’s emphatic 5-0 win at The Hawthorns on Tuesday night.

In 11 league appearances this term, he has notched up two goals and as many assists.

Signed from Stade Rennais in the summer for around €20 million, the Brazilian could be the key for Marcelo Bielsa’s side staying in the English top-flight beyond this season.

Raphinha’s remarkable attacking flair makes him one of the most exciting players to watch in the Premier League, and a former manager feels he is akin to the living Barcelona legend in the way he plays.

“The goal was magnificent,” Alex McLeish told Football Insider.

“I love to watch these type of players who have a real love of the ball and running with it and it is if the ball is glued to their boots. Ryan Giggs is one back in the day.

“Raphinha has that left-foot wand and that’s always fascinated me. Guys with a left foot like Leo Messi, like Rivellino going way back.

“Now you have guys like Raphinha come in and he’s only going to go one way and it’s onto his left and Sam [Allardyce] will be saying, ‘why do you let Raphinha come in on his left? He’s a left-footer, he’s going to go on his left and he’s going to hit it on his left, force him onto his right and he could stumble over the ball.”