Pablo Hernandez and Leeds United were back with a bang yesterday in the Sky Bet Championship, with the Whites putting in a convincing performance to beat Bristol City 3-1 at Ashton Gate.

Leeds might’ve been suffering a play-off hangover after last season’s promotion push came to a crashing end against Derby County, but Marcelo Bielsa’s side put those doubts to bed early on with a statement win.

Goals from Hernandez, Patrick Bamford and Jack Harrison put the Whites in a commanding lead, with Andi Weimann’s late drive just a consolation for the Robins.

For Leeds, there were impressive performances across the park, but without the influential Hernandez, they wouldn’t be half the side.

In this FLW Spotlight, we take a look at some of the numbers he produced at Ashton Gate:

It was a good 90-minute shift from Hernandez, and of course, he opened the scoring with a thunderous drive shortly after the 25-minute mark. Turning on the edge of the area, Hernandez was afforded too much space, with the 34-year-old punishing the Robins with a left-footed effort.

And, that set to tone for a wonderful individual performance, with Hernandez then laying on Bamford’s goal with some classy play down Leeds’ right.

Hernandez’s goal came from one of four shots, with two of those on target, whilst the Spaniard also completed 75% of the dribbles he attempted.

As we look to highlight Hernandez’s all-round contribution, we move away from some impressive attacking numbers, looking at what the former Valencia man did defensively.

A player of his ilk isn’t known for his defensive stats, but four interceptions and nine ball recoveries make very good reading and show his commitment to the team side of the game.

The Verdict

It was a joy to watch Hernandez yesterday for Leeds, and the 34-year-old is once again going to be so important for Marcelo Bielsa’s side in the coming season.

His strike for the opening goal was tremendous, and already a goal of the season contender, whilst his classy play for Bamford’s goal was another standout moment at Ashton Gate.

After 12 goals and 12 assists last season, many believed Hernandez had peaked in a Leeds shirt, and whilst he might not hit those numbers again in the coming campaign, this was a fine start and a show of his importance.

It was a good start for Leeds and Hernandez, but this is only one game in a 46-game campaign, which has to be the message from here. Making this promotion push last the distance is the target.

Thoughts? Let us know!