Former Leeds United man Noel Whelan has revealed that he expects Pablo Hernandez to start for the Whites against Blackburn this afternoon.

The classy Spaniard had missed six Championship games through injury before returning as a late substitute in the win over QPR last time out.

Despite the lack of minutes, Whelan told Football Insider that Hernandez has been training well and that the 34-year-old should return to the XI to give the team a spark that has sometimes been missing in recent weeks.

"Pablo is now back fit, which is fantastic. He’s the magic man, the one who can produce something out of nothing and has to be in the side when he is fit.

"He gives us another creative player, and I fully expect him to be back in the starting XI against Blackburn Rovers. I’ve seen he’s been training fully at Thorp Arch, so it makes sense to play him. He’s too good not to, really."

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A victory against Tony Mowbray's men at Elland Road could lift Leeds back to the top of the table depending on results elsewhere.

The verdict

You'd have to agree with Whelan here. Whilst Leeds have still picked up results without Hernandez, they haven't been at their brilliant best in recent weeks and the absence of the attacking midfielder is partly why.

He has arguably been the standout performer in the Championship over the past few years so it makes total sense to start him when he is available.

Including the former Swansea man could be just what Leeds need to secure a comfortable win this afternoon.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.