Journalist Beren Cross has criticised the form of popular Leeds United star Stuart Dallas, following a disappointing start to the season.
The Lowdown: Dallas stars last season
The Whites enjoyed a superb 2020/21 campaign, finishing ninth in their first year back in the Premier League, with numerous individuals standing out.
It was Dallas who scooped the club's Player of the Year prize, however, following a faultless season that also included a match-winning double away to champions Manchester City.
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The Latest: Cross critical of form
The 30-year-old hasn't quite hit those heights so far in 2021/22, though, and in his player ratings after the Carabao Cup penalty shootout win over Fulham on Tuesday night, Leeds Live's Cross gave a negative assessment of his performance:
"Still not quite at his top level and struggled throughout the first half with a niggle from an early collision. Took another whack on the back of the head in the second half, but stayed on the field. Little things not coming off for him and opponents seem half-a-yard ahead of him."
Per Sofascore, Dallas took 86 touches of the ball and lost possession 21 times (most on the pitch), meaning he surrendered possession roughly once every four touches of the ball.
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The Verdict: Dallas will come good
Dallas has struggled to repeat last season's excellence, but Leeds supporters should have no real reason to be concerned about him.
Like so many Whites players, the whole team's struggles have played a part in their respective dips in form, but Marcelo Bielsa's side will hopefully return to their best sooner rather than later when everyone is fit.
At 30, there is always the lazy argument to say that Dallas' influence could suddenly be on the wane, but he still has lots to offer, with Tony Dorigo describing him as 'wonderful' last season.
In other news, Leeds are reportedly still eyeing up a move for one player - find out who it is here.