Paul Robinson has backed Leeds United forward Georginio Rutter to compete for a starting role next season after he claimed the striker has not "been given an opportunity" to prove himself yet.
Rutter's record-breaking January transfer move to Leeds brought with it a sense of optimism and hope that the former Hoffenheim forward could transform the club's attacking options. Unfortunately for both the 20-year-old and the rest of the team, it hasn't been the explosive start that many had hoped for.
The Frenchman is adapting to life in the Premier League and it is safe to say that many players before him have demonstrated that just because things don't get off to a flying start straight away, does not mean that he can't cut it in the long-term.
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Robinson for one believes that it is still too early to form an opinion on Rutter as he admitted that a lack of regular playing time since Javi Gracia arrived has made it hard for the attacker to showcase his talent.
“To be very honest and fair to the lad, you can’t judge him. He’s come to the club with a great reputation,” he told MOT Leeds News.
“He looks a quality player when he comes onto the pitch and he always has an impact when he comes on. You have to be very fair to him, he hasn’t been given an opportunity in a team which has struggled for goals.
“Prior to the Wolves game, Leeds struggled for goals and the manager still didn’t give our record signing an opportunity.
“I think that the jury is out on him. He will be around next year regardless of Leeds’ league status. He will be staking a claim for a regular starting place.”
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