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Last season, Stuart Dallas ended up being moved from the wing to right back by Paul Heckingbottom, which in the first couple of games was not the most convincing of decisions, but the Irishman would grow into the role and now could be a real contender in Marcelo Bielsa’s team.
There has been very little news or even speculation of a new right wing back coming into Leeds United. Many fans had been hoping that Lewie Coyle would get an opportunity in the Leeds first team following from his fruitful season at League One outfit Fleetwood Town. However, Coyle has been sent back to Fleetwood for another loan spell for six months, which leaves a gap in the 3-3-1-3 set-up should Luke Ayling be utilised at centre-back. With little going on in terms of a new full back it leaves the door open for Stuart Dallas to nail down a starting spot.
Dallas has experience at international level with Northern Ireland playing in a wing-back role, and with Bielsa’s attacking style a big feature for the wing backs, Dallas to fit the bill very well. Of course his favoured position is on the wing and as we know he can definitely make an impact going forward. He hasn’t got bags of pace but his ability on the ball is fantastic , while he’s also a no nonsense type of player which is something important in young squad which needs leaders. A level head with experience, Dallas has 29 Northern Ireland caps which is valuable experience, especially because he played in Euro 2016 against top competition.
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The 27 year-old is a very well respected and highly regarded individual with a good example being his good willed nature. When in Las Vegas on a honeymoon with his wife, he came across a homeless man, bringing him into a store and buying him all that he needed. He is well known back home not just for his footballing success, but also his generosity. This kind of figure and leadership is something very valuable to a squad.
On the pitch, he remains a great asset to Leeds United, and can seriously benefit playing in the Bielsa wing back role. He will be a crucial part of the team as he brings the ball out from defence to attack, can bring the ball inside, swing in early crosses or keep the ball moving around the main attacking four in support of the attack. He will support the midfield with solid passing ability and poise on the ball. Dallas deserves the chance to play a big role in a Leeds promotion push.