Stuart Dallas bagged a brace as Leeds United claimed an emphatic 5-1 win in their pre-season friendly with Guiseley.
With two non-league opponents played so far in pre-season, it would hardly be a surprise if no member of Thomas Christiansen’s Leeds squad was getting carried away with their recent performances. But perhaps one player’s latest contribution just provides the slightest hint that a proper pre-season could be exactly what he has needed.
Last summer, Stuart Dallas was part of the Northern Ireland squad that reached the knockout stages of Euro 2016, and the Yorkshire Evening Post reported that he then missed much of the remaining pre-season due to his honeymoon.
Stuart Dallas
While other factors may have had an impact, there is no question that he generally failed to replicate the form that he showed from during his first season with the Whites, contributing three fewer goals and assists compared to the previous campaign in the Championship.
And the way that the winger has started this summer just gives the slightest hint that a proper pre-season could be exactly what he needs to rediscover his best form.
He contributed an assist in the win over Harrogate, and scored twice in the 5-1 win over Guiseley – with his second goal seeing the former Brentford man find the top corner with a sumptuous effort at a tight angle.
As mentioned, it is too early to get over excited about the performances given the level of opposition, but the early signs are certainly positive.
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