This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

A full EFL programme commences this weekend following the international break, with Leeds United hosting Birmingham City, looking to reverse the form that has seen the Whites pick-up only one win in their last four outings.

Despite being fully focused on preparing his side on the pitch, Whites manager Marcelo Bielsa has half-an-eye on events off it, with talks on a new contract for attacking midfielder Pablo Hernandez about to commence, according to a report on Football Insider.

So is it imperative that Leeds get Hernandez tied down to a new deal?

We discuss.........

George Harbey

"This would be a fantastic move by Leeds, if they were to tie Hernandez down to a new deal.

"He is still undoubtedly one of their best players in the squad, and the influence he has on his teammates is huge.

"He is one of the most creative and talented players in the Championship, and they have really missed him whilst he's been out injured.

"It speaks volumes that he wants to commit to Leeds, rather than move back to Spain in the latter stages of his career."

Josh Cole

“If Leeds can agree fresh terms with Pablo Hernandez, it could turn out to be an incredibly shrewd move by Marcelo Bielsa.

“Utterly fantastic last season, the attacking midfielder provided 24 direct goal contributions as the Whites narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League.

“Whilst Hernandez has yet to hit top-form during the current campaign, he is still a key player for the club and thus they should be doing everything they can to extend his stay.

“Although he is approaching the twilight of his career, there is no doubting that the 34-year-old still has a lot to offer for Leeds.”

Ben Lang

"It's a smart move.

"It is so important that Leeds extend Hernandez's contract beyond the summer as the side is simply not as good without the Spaniard.

"It's been evident that Leeds have missed his creative presence during his injury troubles in recent weeks, and the Whites need him in the side even when he might not be playing his best football.

"Hernandez has proven he still possesses the quality to compete in the Championship so the fact he is now 34 should not deter Leeds from extending his deal.

"The Whites should now work on a year-by-year basis with Hernandez. It's crucial they extend his deal by a further year, but they should also keep an eye out for his long-term replacement as he won't be around forever."

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