“Challenging”: Stuart Dallas Reveals His First Impressions of £4m Signing After Arrival at Leeds

Leeds United secured an impressive victory over Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth with a flurry of late goals from Dan James, Joel Piroe, and Brenden Aaronson, moving them up to second place.

This ten-minute blitz in the second half proved decisive, even as Leeds were missing key midfielders Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu, who remain sidelined with injuries and are expected to return in December.

Gruev, recovering steadily, recently progressed to walking unaided, marking a key milestone in his rehabilitation.

However, the Bulgarian midfielder isn’t likely to be match-fit until late December at the earliest.

Stuart Dallas recently shared his first impressions of Gruev at Leeds, noting his disciplined approach to the game.

Bought for a modest £4 million from Werder Bremen, Gruev had a slow start last season but eventually became a crucial part of Daniel Farke’s setup.

Starting this season as a first-choice player, his injury has opened the door for Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka to step in.

Dallas acknowledged that Gruev might have faced initial challenges adapting to the physicality of the English league and the distance from family and friends.

As Gruev nears a return, Farke may face a selection dilemma. With the depth Leeds now boasts in midfield, finding a place for Gruev won’t be straightforward.

Team captain Ethan Ampadu is a lock in the lineup when fully fit, leaving only one spot up for grabs.

Rothwell has shown his value with sharp vision and set-piece prowess, while Tanaka has arguably been Leeds’ standout player in October with his energetic play and technical skills.

Farke will likely have to decide whether Gruev can reclaim his spot or whether Rothwell and Tanaka’s current form will keep him further down the pecking order.

For now, Leeds will rely on Tanaka and Rothwell in central midfield for their upcoming clash against Millwall, with Josuha Guilavogui, who made his debut on Saturday, ready as a first reserve.

This depth in midfield poses both a challenge and an opportunity for Farke as Leeds continues to fight for a top position, but it also ensures the team is well-prepared for the demands of the season.