Paul Dickov told BBC Sport that the ‘outstanding’ Stuart Dallas didn’t stop running during Leeds United’s 2-1 win at Manchester City on Saturday.
Even though Leeds went into the break leading 1-0, many fans would have been on edge because Liam Cooper had been sent off and Patrick Bamford was forced off after 45 minutes.
Cooper’s reckless challenge on Gabriel Jesus resulted in the Scotsman being handed his marching orders, but he would have been a relieved man when Dallas was striding forward during the dying minutes and slotting home the winner.
Dickov labelled Cooper’s challenge on Jesus as ‘crazy’ given the circumstances Leeds were in, but he praised Dallas for his efforts.
“All credit to Leeds United and to Stuart Dallas,” said Dickov. “The amount of work he has got through today has been phenomenal, he hasn’t stopped.
“He’s been defending for almost 90% of this second half and he sees an opening and what a great finish past Ederson – We’ve spoken about Raphinha before but Stuart Dallas has been outstanding for Leeds.
“The tackle from Liam Cooper was crazy because he was having a good game – it wasn’t like he was getting run ragged and he was having a poor game.
“He’s won everything that has come into the box and blocked a couple of shots, so from that point of view, it must have been a mad rush of blood to the head to do it.”
This is perhaps Leeds’ best win of the season and a deserved one given the highly pressured situation they were under.
And one of their most underrated talents in Dallas, who cost only £2 million (Sky Sports), stepped up to the plate and ensured Leeds will end the season with four points from the soon-to-be Premier League champions.
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