Roberts can’t understand Hernandez snub

Hernandez Thompson Marshall

TYLER ROBERTS was astonished that Leeds talisman Pablo Hernandez was omitted from the Championship Team of the Year.

The Spaniard, 33, scored two goals – with the winner courtesy of Roberts’ assist – as the Whites twice came from behind against relegationhaunted Millwall in a feisty clash between old rivals.

Leeds skipper

Liam Cooper (above, right, celebrating with Roberts) and midfielder Kalvin Phillips made the EFL’s select XI, but Hernandez – who now has 12 goals this season – was overlooked.

And Roberts, whose centre set up Hernandez’s decisive 83rdminute finish, said: “When the REF: team of the year came out, we were all very surprised he didn’t make it.

“Pablo didn’t mention it. That’s not what he’s like. He just keeps doing what he’s doing.

“He showed with two more goals today what he’s about – he lets his performances do the talking. He’s had a great career and is still doing it.

“It’s great to have him in our team. He’s not the loudest player in the changing room, but he leads us with his performances. He’s a great player to learn from.” Hernandez levelled in the 34th minute after Leeds conceded Ben Thompson’s 10thminute opener and Patrick Bamford’s 19th-minute penalty for the home side had been saved by David Martin.

Ben Marshall converted from the spot to restore Millwall’s lead 10 minutes into the second half before Luke Ayling headed Leeds’ second equaliser on 71 minutes and Hernandez had the final say.

It took Marcelo Bielsa’s men back ATT: into second place and Roberts, only five when Leeds were last in the top flight 15 years ago, said: “This is a massive part of my life right now.

“To get this massive club back into the Premier League would be a dream come true.”

Leeds fear FA punishment after managing director Angus Kinnear’s pre-match plea to fans for good behaviour fell on deaf ears.

There is a history of trouble between these clubs and missiles were thrown at Millwall players after Marshall’s penalty, with smoke bombs also let off during the game.

Leeds have been warned about similar incidents and visiting boss Neil Harris, who could not confirm if any of his players had been hit, said: “People within football, myself as a manager and Marcelo as a manager, nobody would condone fans throwing stuff on the pitch.”

MATCH STATS

LEEDS: MILLWALL: