Unsung hero grabs the limelight to thrill Bielsa
STUART DALLAS, a versatile journeyman from Cookstown in Northern Ireland, is proof that you don’t need natural Latin flair to thrive under Marcelo Bielsa.
Dallas began his career with Crusaders and signed for Leeds in 2015 — well before Bielsa’s arrival. He’s proved this season that he rightfully belongs in the Premier League and having served his club manfully in both defence and midfield, yesterday’s match- winning double at Manchester City put him in the limelight.
‘It gives me great happiness because he is a player whose game is built on a lot of generosity,’ said Bielsa. ‘He helps all his team-mates to recover the ball and not lose it. The goals today have allowed his name to shine. This year has allowed Dallas to show a part of himself that we didn’t know he had.’
The 29- year- old has scored seven times this season and his late winner between Ederson’s legs was worthy of an international centre-forward — even if he jokingly claimed it was struck with his eyes shut.
‘It is a great result for us. It was tough out there. It is hard enough with 11, never mind 10,’ said Dallas, referring to the sending-off of Liam Cooper.
‘We defended really well and I managed to get on the end of a chance. I saw it opening up. Against these teams you need to be clinical. I think I took one touch and closed my eyes.’
STUART DALLAS became the first Leeds player this century to score a 90th minute winner in the Premier League — and it capped a fine performance from the Northern Ireland international.
2 goals
100% shot conversion 100% tackles won 93% passing accuracy
28 passes (most of Leeds’ outfield players) 8 ball recoveries (most)
40 touches