'I never learned' - Leeds United's Anton Stach makes admission over surprise aspect of his game
Leeds United midfielder Anton Stach has provided analysis of his own style and traits
Anton Stach is among Leeds United’s most physically imposing figures - but has admitted he never learned to become a threat in the opposition box.
Many would guess Stach - who stands at 6ft 4in - would be a handful when deliveries to the box are being made.
However, it is often the midfielder standing over the set-piece rather than looking to get on the end of it.
Anton Stach’s admission
He told The Athletic: “When we talked at the beginning, with the whole coaching staff, they [noticed] I took some corners and free-kicks already because at Hoffenheim I had some assists, but then it was the same.
“It changed because the number 10 was taking the free kicks and I had to go inside [the box], but I’m not the best at heading because I’ve never learned it. When I was young, I was very small, and then it was one year where my height went up so much.
“That’s why I never learned how to react in the box. So we tried it out sometimes in the pre-season, also in training and then it worked out.”
Supporting Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Over the course of his 39 appearances for Leeds, it has been evident he is much more than just a disruptor in the middle of the park.
Whites boss Daniel Farke has used the Germany international in advanced roles, tasking the 27-year-old with supporting frontman Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Stach said: “He just wants me to be in the dangerous areas. When I defend, I’m a mix between a midfielder and winger, sometimes on the right.
“I can run a lot. I can help our defence a lot, but in this area, he wants me to be around Dom, that we help him with physicality in the duels and that we are dangerous and try to create chances to score.”
Leeds United’s support
The Elland Road faithful have taken to Stach and it is fair to say the midfielder has taken to them since his arrival from Hoffenheim in July 2025.
He said: “I heard so many things about Elland Road and how loud the crowd can be, but it’s different when you hear it. Every game, the stadium is full. Not a single spot is bare.
“I also see, when we score a goal, you barely see a phone. They just live the moment and they celebrate together. It’s so loud.”