Exclusive:'One of the best characters we've had' - Leeds United icon Tony Dorigo waxes lyrical about Anton Stach
Tony Dorigo speaks to The Yorkshire Post about Leeds United’s Anton Stach
Leeds United icon Tony Dorigo has hailed Anton Stach as one of the best characters the Whites have had in their ranks.
Stach was among the marquee signings made during Leeds’ post-promotion recruitment drive, joining from Hoffenheim in his native Germany for a reported £17m.
The midfielder has proven to be a shrewd addition for the Whites, weighing in with five goals and three assists over the course of 32 outings in all competitions. His most recent goal came in Leeds’ 3-1 win over Burnley last Friday (May 1) and was an eye-catching long-range effort.
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Tony Dorigo lauds Leeds United’s Anton Stach
Dorigo, who represented the Whites with distinction1991 and 1997, told The Yorkshire Post via online bingo sites: “I think what Anton gives us is something that we haven't got in any other midfielder. It's as simple as that. When he's not playing, we lack that drive in midfield because he's a player, I think, that he goes forward in lots of different ways.
“Not only does he look forward with his passing, I think he can run forward without the ball. He arrives in areas, supporting the strikers, but also he runs with the ball, he can carry it 30/40 yards because of his pace and range. And as we know, when he gets into those areas, he finishes rather well.
“I think he's been a great signing, a great age. I would also say character-wise, one of the best characters we've had. I think that's where the club have done really well. Bringing in the right players is one thing, but making them gel and with the right characters [is another].
“I think Stach is one of those that, he's a great guy to have around. He's a lot of fun, doesn't take himself too seriously, but he's a heck of a player and a heck of a professional.
“I would say, if you're talking of players that make a difference and are influential, he's got to be right up there [with the best signings] of the last few years, for sure.”
Anton Stach’s explosive return to action
Stach missed the victories over Manchester United and Wolverhampton Wanderers, as well as the draw with AFC Bournemouth, due to an ankle injury.
He made his return to action from the bench in the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Chelsea before being restored to the starting XI for the battle with Burnley. The 27-year-old played in a more advanced role and tormented the Clarets to help Leeds pick up three valuable points.
Dorigo said: “Obviously, it'll be depending on the balance of our side and how everything fits in, but I think he's a clever player and he can play that position as well because he's got a great engine.
“He gets around the pitch, he closes down, he gets up with the attack, but also gets back to defend. He was here, there and everywhere and he's got quality with it.”