Darren Bent makes claim about Leeds stalwart Stuart Dallas

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Darren Bent has told talkSPORT that Stuart Dallas is probably the best utility player in history, before admitting that it would be tough to pick between the Leeds United stalwart and James Milner.

Like many of his teammates, Dallas has been a revelation in the top flight. It is easy to forget that it was not until Marcelo Bielsa’s second season at Elland Road that the Northern Irishman became a regular starter.

Dallas forced his way into the fold. And he has been the player Bielsa has often turned to whenever there is a void in the side he has needed to fill.

The 29-year-old has played in both full-back roles, as a winger, in holding midfield and in central midfield just this season. And there is no reason to believe that he could not do a job in the remaining positions he is yet to feature in.

He was outstanding on Monday as Leeds beat Crystal Palace at Elland Road. And his form prompted Bent to make a big claim about the former Brentford man.

“They’ve got a lot of players I think that have just stepped up. It’s like they’ve been playing in the Premier League for years. I think Klich’s been a very, very good player. Kalvin Phillips we know how good he is,” he told talkSPORT.

“Dallas, as well. He’s probably the best utility man in history. I have seen him play in the last few seasons about nine different positions.”

Bent was then asked whether Dallas is a better utility man than Milner. And while he did not manage to provide a definitive answer, his response still says a lot.

“That’s a toughie, that.”

Milner has been, without doubt, one of the best utility men in Premier League history. So to not shut down the idea that Dallas could be in the same bracket is remarkable.

Of course, Milner has enjoyed a lot more longevity at the highest level. And he has won almost every major honour available to him during his career.

Nevertheless, it is probably fair to also say that there may not be too many players Marcelo Bielsa would be tempted to swap Dallas for.