Stuart Dallas continues to go under the radar as one of Leeds United’s unsung heroes as he shines in numerous positions in Marcelo Bielsa’s side – but his importance is becoming more apparent after topping a Premier League stat, so far.
Dallas, 29, joined Leeds for £1.3million (Sky Sports) in the summer of 2015. But until Marcelo Bielsa’s arrival as Leeds boss, the 44-Northern Ireland international was only a run-of-the-mill squad player. Since Bielsa arrived, that has all changed.
Under the Argentine, Dallas has become renowned for his impeccable work rate, his enormous versatility and many other characteristics that have seen him become a fan favourite at Elland Road. He has a contract at Leeds until 2023.
The step-up to the Premier League may have troubled Dallas, given before Bielsa he had struggled to establish himself at Leeds. But according to a stat, as posted by Amazon Prime Sport, Dallas is right at home in England’s top tier.
The stat reads that Dallas has won the ball back 63 times in his seven Premier League appearances this season. That is seven ahead of the next player, and more than Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and Manchester City’s Rodri.
That Dallas form is despite the left-back primarily playing on the flank, instead of in the middle of the park where Frank-Andre Zambo Anguissa, Youri Tielemans and Rodri play. It does not state his versatility, playing in numerous positions.
At such a bargain fee, it is fair to say that Dallas might be one of Leeds United’s best ever signings. Can he continue to prove so important? Time will tell, but for now, the Cookstown Cafu is showing no signs of letting up.
