Tony Dorigo has hailed Ezgjan Alioski for proving his doubters wrong at Leeds United last season, while speaking with Yorkshire Evening Post.
The former Whites left-back questioned if Alioski had the ability to step up and deliver crucial performances in the Premier League. But was pleasantly surprised to see the North Macedonia international thrive under Marcelo Bielsa and score some vital goals.
Alioski ended the season with two goals and three assists in 36 top-flight appearances, while starting 29 of his outings. His strikes came in five-goal routs over Newcastle and West Brom, while setting Stuart Dallas free to score the winner away to Manchester City in April.
Alioski has now left Leeds, however, having failed to agree on terms to a new contract, the Whites confirmed. But he could still return, with the Mirror reporting that United’s latest offer remains on the table.
The left-back putting pen to paper on a new contract and remaining at Elland Road would surely delight Dorigo. As he’s claimed Leeds will miss Alioski and his never-say-die attitude.
“I have to say that I think Gjanni did fantastically well,” Dorigo said. “He kept proving the doubters wrong. I never thought he could reach those sorts of heights, but he did tremendously well and scored some really important goals.
“But I think [what was] more important was just his spirit. His absolute never-say-die spirit and what I know is Leeds fans absolutely love that. You look at [Gaetano] Berardi and you look at Alioski and that spirit is really important, so that’s what we are going to miss.”
Bielsa will miss Alioski at Leeds next season
Like Dorigo says, Bielsa will miss Alioski and his never-say-die attitude that Leeds fans fell in love with. He may not have always been the best player on the pitch, but he gave it his all.
On his day, the North Macedonia international moves the ball well and offers a lot of energy on the left-flank. His goal at West Brom also showing his ability to slot home a crisp drive.
Bielsa clearly valued Alioski, as well, having fielded him in all but two of Leeds’ league fixtures last season. The Argentine will now hope £13m arrival Junior Firpo can fill the void.
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