Stuart Dallas looks key at Leeds United.
Stuart Dallas scored Leeds United’s opening goal at the weekend to kick off an easy win for the Whites.
Ezgjan Alioski and Patrick Bamford followed up Dallas’ opener to help Leeds to a 3-0 victory.
There was something significant about Dallas’ goal, it highlighted what a reliable and key player he has become.
At the start of last season there were legitimate concerns as to whether Dallas had a future at Leeds.
He has responded well, staying patient, and has reinvented himself as a full-back.
Dallas played at both left-back and right-back last season and is now letting the attacking side of his game flourish after focusing on the defensive side.
His impressive goal in the play-off defeat to Derby was forgotten amid the heartbreak which enveloped the team at the final whistle.
This season he has been called into action at right-back with Luke Ayling injured, and Leeds are not missing a beat.
He is growing in confidence at the position, and becoming an increasingly key part of Marcelo Bielsa’s plans.
Against Stoke, Dallas had three shots at goal – more than striker Patrick Bamford.
He has bought into Bielsa’s system totally, and seeing him line up at right-back is no longer a concern, it brings feelings of reassurance.
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