Leeds United suffered a massive blow recently as they were beaten by Sheffield United at home narrowly. The Whites dominated the proceedings, to begin with, but after weathering the early storm, the Blades managed to pull off a crucial result which now puts them on the second spot.
United though can’t be too disheartened about their overall performance, and it was just one of those days where they failed to find the back of the net. However, there is one player who recently showcased his frustration because of a lack of game time, and that is Stuart Dallas. The Northern Irish winger has not started a game since December last year.
Dallas was recently quoted as saying (BBC), ”I perhaps haven’t played as much in previous weeks as I would have liked, which hasn’t been helped by the injury I picked up at the start of December. But I’m fit, probably fitter now than what I’ve ever been. Kept myself in good condition when I was out injured.”
The versatile winger has made appearances off the bench, but it is clear that he is going to continue in the bits and pieces role throughout the season. Bielsa has used him on the flanks and as a full back, and his versatility is his biggest asset. Therefore he still is an essential player for the Whites in our opinion as he can fill in various positions.
Given United’s injury crisis, Dallas might still have a role to play this season. Moreover, he has looked impressive in his little cameos as his work rate is very impressive and his perseverance and tenacity often makes the difference.
However, one can understand why he hasn’t been able to nail down a starting place as he doesn’t seem to have too much quality when on the ball. United often move the ball quickly in transition, and it is clear that Bielsa doesn’t see him as a first-team option. Dallas has only managed to seal his place in the starting eleven when certain players have been injured. So we don’t see the dynamics changing soon in the first team.
If the Whites move to the Premier League, they would like to improve their quality of the squad further, and Dallas might find himself further down the pecking order. However, his versatility will always be an asset for the club so he might still continue as a squad player. But, the way the winger is looking frustrated, he might push for a move in the summer.
