The Leeds United winger was overlooked for their opening league game despite impressing during the summer.
Leeds United’s 3-2 victory against Bolton Wanderers on Sunday spoke of better things to come after years of disappointment at Elland Road.
Whites fans were already excited after a summer of change both on and off the field, and Thomas Christiansen’s side did not disappoint, even if the defence still needs some work.
While the selection of Felix Wiedwald ahead of Rob Green prompted plenty of debate, the omission of Stuart Dallas was arguably even more surprising given the winger’s impressive form during pre-season.
The 26-year-old was not even on the bench on Sunday, and watched from afar as one man who was – Hadi Sacko – looked completely lost when he was called on with five minutes remaining.
While Leeds have significantly strengthened their squad this summer, and hardly anyone is guaranteed a starting spot these days, Dallas deserved to be included.
He looked bright throughout pre-season and has done far more than Sacko to justify his inclusion.
The latter may already be on borrowed time at Leeds if he does not start utilising his undeniable talent in the right way.
As for Dallas, he could have the ideal opportunity to prove Christiansen wrong when Leeds take on Port Vale in the League Cup later this week.
The Whites are likely to make plenty of changes and Dallas should start. If he brings his pre-season form with him, he will surely convince his new manager not to overlook him for Sacko again any time soon.
That could be bad news for the erratic Frenchman but great news for a Leeds side that cannot afford to carry anyone as they bid to earn promotion back to the top flight.
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