It is fair to say that Noel Whelan is not a fan of Leeds United winger Helder Costa.
The former Leeds striker has previously branded the Angolan “a massive flop” and a “real disappointment”. He also suggested “something is not right” with the 27-year-old wideman.
And when asked about the continued absence of fellow United winger Raphinha, Whelan could not resist the temptation to rip into the £16million man again.
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Raphinha is struggling with a hematoma suffered in the 2-1 win over Manchester City and is set to miss Leeds’ trip to Brighton on Saturday.
With Costa having failed to stamp his authority on games in the Brazilian’s absence, Whelan insisted the loss of the 24-year-old was a “huge blow”.
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said: “We were hoping that within the two games that he’s missed, it was just a matter of getting him back to peak fitness and peak form, ready to join back in with the rest of the team.
“But it seems that the injury has become a little bit more serious than expected.
“When it comes to the football side of things, when you look at the right-hand side, how poor how Helder Costa has done since he’s come in, it makes a huge blow.”
Costa has endured a nightmare campaign in the Premier League for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, scoring just twice and providing only three assists in 22 games he’s featured.
“For a player that cost £16million I need to see a hell of a lot more from him,” said Whelan.
However, it seems he might actually be seeing a lot less from him if reports are to be believed.
Football Insider recently claimed Leeds are open to offers for the £70k-a-week flop this summer.
United do not expect to recoup anything like the money they paid Wolves for him.
But any money received would be available for reinvestment in a squad which is only one season out of the Championship. It would allow Costa a fresh start, free from the critical gaze of Whelan.
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