Leeds United’s play-off hopes may be slim, but with Paul Heckingbottom’s men still mathematically in contention for a top six finish, the belief that the long Premier League exile dogging Elland can be ended this term will remain in West Yorkshire.

Heckingbottom has installed a new philosophy since his appointment as boss last month, with personnel seemingly cast from former boss Thomas Christiansen’s plans back in the fold in recent weeks.

The prime example of this is Northern Irish international Stuart Dallas, who has emerged as a key figure in the side following the former Barnsley manager’s arrival at the club.

The season has been extremely tough for the former Brentford man, but this is what we have learnt about the winger so far…

Dallas has failed to nail down a regular starting berth at Elland Road since arriving from Brentford, and it is clear that he will never be considered as one of the first names on the team sheet by either his manager or the fans.

However the player is a solid, reliable option who is certainly a welcome addition to the squad, and those associated with Leeds United will certainly be pleased to have him available for selection.

Dallas appears to have accepted this status, but may grow frustrated if opportunities continue to remain as limited as they have in recent months, and could consider his options when the season comes to a close.

Since Heckingbottom’s appointment, Dallas has become a regular starter, and has filled in at full-back in the absence of Gaetano Berardi following his suspension.

The best player on the park in the 2-2 draw at Derby County last month, Dallas’ willingness to get forward from his defensive role was apparent, and his assist was just reward for the hard work the Northern Irishman put in over the course of the ninety minutes.

Having proven he can play at the back and out of his preferred wing position, his value to Heckingbottom as a versatile player has soared.

Chances were extremely limited under Christiansen with Dallas starting just twice, and many would not have held a grudge against the former Crusaders man for seeking a move away from the club during the January transfer window.

However Dallas bided his time, and the Dane’s sacking proved to be a blessing, with Heckingbottom giving the player the nod in each of his first four fixtures.

Dallas waited and waited and his opportunity has come, with the player certainly proving to his new boss that he deserves to be in his starting eleven.

Dallas must remain ahead of the inconsistent and error prone Berardi as he reintegrated into first team affairs following his short suspension, with the international a far superior, reliable option.

Leeds fans, thoughts on Dallas?