A lot of Leeds United fans cannot believe that ex-White Matt Grimes has made the second most tackles this season – behind only Kalvin Phillips.
This has surprised many Leeds supporters who only remember Grimes as a complete failure at Elland Road.
Are you surprised at Grimes' resurgence?
Yes
No
https://twitter.com/LUFCDATA/status/1207359099689668610
Most improved player? Mr Grimes. He was dog awful for us.
— BROLIN ATE THE PIE (@REDPLANET2025) December 18, 2019
1st touch is a tackle
— Jordan Talbot (@TalbotJordan) December 18, 2019
I’m more shocked Grimes is second
— stephen a (@4n4lstevie) December 19, 2019
Matt Grimes only 2nd because of his 1st touch
— optimisticleedsfan (@nivekmulla1965) December 19, 2019
Other Whites fans, though, have decided to focus on Phillips and Stuart Dallas – who has also made a high number of tackles this season.
Good to see Dallas on there also, he has stepped up a level this season ?
— Paul M (@pauldmulhern) December 18, 2019
Think with Dallas he makes crucial tackles, edge of box, always seem to just nick the ball of someone’s foot in the danger areas. My most consistent player this season, work rate amazing. Fits into Bielsas system perfectly.
— Jacko (@AndrewAjacks) December 18, 2019
Pirlo didnt tackle or even jostle. Phillips can stand on his own. Complete Player
— Zai (@Zais_P3rch) December 19, 2019
What do we think?
Grimes made 12 appearances for Leeds and played for the club during a difficult season where the Whites finished seventh and was regarded as a flop by some.
He moved to Swansea in 2015 before moving to Elland Road for a season but since he has returned to the Liberty Stadium he has become a key part of their midfield.
The 24-year-old has made 64 tackles this season and has clearly improved as a player.
Phillips tops the list with 72 tackles and considering Leeds have, on average, 59.9% of possession per game that makes this statistic even more impressive.
The 24-year-old is a master at winning possession back for his team and starting attacks.
This is reflected in his two key passes per game and average pass success rate of 82%.
Dallas has also improved as a player, and Marcelo Bielsa has exploited his versatility to full effect with the Northern Irishman having played at left-back, right-back and in midfield this season.
Dallas is clearly not afraid to get stuck in, and he has endeared himself to many of the Leeds faithful with his fully committed displays.