Javier Mascherano has praised Leeds United star Pablo Hernandez on Twitter and has hailed Marcelo Bielsa’s side for the win against Stoke City this evening.

Leeds have enhanced their chances of clinching automatic promotion to the Premier League at the end of the season with a comprehensive 5-0 win against Stoke at Elland Road in the Championship.

Hernandez, who can operate as an attacking midfielder or as a winger, scored for the Whites in the 72nd minute after coming on as a substitute at the start of the second half.

Former Liverpool and Barcelona star Mascherano was following the match, and the Argentine – who can play as a central defender or as a defensive middle and is now at Estudiantes – has praised the 35-year-old Spaniard on Twitter, and is also pleased for the win for Bielsa’s side.

Mascherano wrote on Twitter, which when translated from Spanish reads: “Great goal by Pablo Hernandez. Very important victory to send a message to your pursuers !!!”

Former Leeds attacking midfielder Simon Johnson has also praised Hernandez on Twitter for his goal against Stoke.

Golazo de Pablo Hernandez.

Victoria importantísima para mandarle un mensaje a sus perseguidores!!!

— Javier Mascherano (@Mascherano) July 9, 2020

What a finish……The geezer just oooooooooooozes class. Lovely over and awareness from PB