SPANISH STAR PAB SETTING RIGHT EXAMPLE
PABLO Hernandez says he is patently aware of his responsibility to lead by example as one of Leeds’ elder statesmen.
The 32-year-old former Spain international is his club’s only outfield player over the age of 30. He has been a key man behind the impressive start Thomas Christiansen’s side have made to the new season – sitting top of the table ahead of the weekend.
And the former Valencia man, who has two Champions League goals to his name, believes one of the biggest ways he can have an impact on Leeds’ fortunes this term is to lead his younger colleagues in every way possible.
“I know I’m the oldest player but my feeling is that I’m young,” Hernandez said. “The important thing for me is I’m an example for the young players.
“I always play 100 per cent. I always work on the training ground 100 per cent because, for young players, if they watch older players not running or not working, then it’s a mistake.
“This is my role. I know that.”
Garry Monk, who worked with Hernandez at Swansea, brought him to Elland Road in August last year, with the Spaniard’s initial loan move made permanent in January.
He signed for a further year in May, shortly before Monk resigned and left to take charge of Middlesbrough, but Hernandez says hasn’t changed his outlook on life in West Yorkshire.
“I arrived here because Garry called me, but it’s football and football sees continuous change,” he added. “I’m very happy with (Christiansen) because he knows my style.
“His style is very Spanish because he’s a Spanish gaffer and all his staff are Spanish. I think this helps me to show my best. This club deserve to play in the Premier League. I hope it will play there in the future – hopefully next year.”