Dave Edwards has stated that Helder Costa’s start to life with Leeds United is similar to what he went through during his early days with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Leeds went big to sign Costa in the summer, with The Athletic confirming that the deal to bring the 25-year-old to Elland Road will cost £16m in total.

Yet, Marcelo Bielsa has held Costa back to a certain extent. He’s started both League Cup fixtures, scoring once and assisting twice, but he’s yet to feature from the off in the Championship.

In seven substitute appearances, Costa has managed only one assist, but his influence is growing, with Bielsa turning to him at half-time in Sunday’s win over Barnsley.

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That slow start isn’t a first in the career of Costa, with former Wolves teammate, Edwards, telling The Athletic: “It was a bit like that at Wolves.”

However, despite that slow start at Wolves, Costa was a hit and helped them to promotion in 2018. And, in the eyes of the former Wales midfielder, he will be a hit in Leeds.

Edwards continued: “He took time to get going but when he did he was brilliant. I’m absolutely certain we’ll see the same at Leeds.” 

Indeed, it took Costa six Championship appearances to score his first league goal for Wolves, which came on September 17^th as they beat Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

By the time the season finished, the Portuguese had 12 goals to his name in all competitions, along with 11 assists.

The Verdict

Costa will come good at Leeds and prove to be an important player this season, there’s little doubt in my mind.

Bielsa is loyal to those doing the job at the minute, and with Leeds top of the Championship, there’s little need to change too much.

However, Costa is an expensive addition and calls for him to start are growing. That start may come on Saturday against Derby, and given the comparison to his Wolves start, that might be the opportunity he needs to make his impact count.

Thoughts? Let us know!