Anton Stach has made quite the impression since his arrival at Elland Road this summer, from amusing Instagram posts to proving to be a formidable force on the pitch.
Stach added to Leeds fans’ excitement ahead of last night’s game with another cheeky Instagram post, conveying his hunger to get started in the league.
And he certainly made an impact, creating the most chances of the game (4) and covering the most distance (11.7 km).
He was partnered by Ethan Ampadu and Ao Tanaka in midfield and they looked strong, not only that, Stach matched a statistic from none other than Raphinha last night.
Anton Stach, playing for Leeds United vs Everton - Premier League
Photo by Pat Scaasi/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Anton Stach matches Raphinha Leeds United record
Anton Stach’s debut against Everton was a brilliant one, playing the full 90 minutes in the midfield. He showed he could handle the intensity and physicality of the Premier League.
His statistics from the match back this up, with an 80% pass accuracy, 4 chances created, and 5 clearances. He was not dribbled past a single time, which is a testament to his defensive ability, physicality, and positioning.
Stach’s most crucial contribution was directly leading to the winning goal. In the 84th minute, his shot from a distance deflected off of Everton defender James Tarkowski’s arm, resulting in a controversial penalty that was converted by Lukas Nmecha.
Contribution Statistic
Total shots 4
Distance covered 11.7 km
Top speed 31.8 km/h
Touches 86
Accurate long balls 80%
Defensive contributions 9
Anton Stach’s statistics against Everton, via FotMob.
He truly did get the better of Everton’s Idrissa Gueye, who is on £130k-a-week. His tenacious nature and commanding presence are reminiscent of Mateusz Klich, another former Leeds star.
MORE LEEDS UNITED STORIES
Post-match, Opta shared that Stach’s display meant he became the first Leeds United player to have at least 4 shots and create at least 4 chances in a Premier League match since Raphinha (4 shots, 6 chances) against Wolves in February 2021.
A stellar performance that matches contributions from a Leeds legend like Raphinha is what you can call a dream start.
Leeds United v Everton - Premier League
Photo by Pat Scaasi/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Tony Dorigo praises Anton Stach’s performance
During LUTV’s coverage of last night’s game, the former Leeds United defender, Tony Dorigo was full of praise of Anton Stach.
In the third minute, Dorigo said: “He’s always looking to get forward, he’s got so much energy.
“I really do think he will be an important player for us this season.”
Dorigo isn’t wrong, Stach joined from TSG Hoffenheim with a reputation as a commanding presence in midfield, known for his defensive prowess. Standing at 6’4″, Stach’s physical attributes are a major asset.
His stats from the Bundesliga show he excelled in duels, interceptions, clearances, and was ranked as the top player for interceptions in his previous league over the last two seasons.