Dominic Poleon – Viduka's Quartet

It’s 3 games into the new season and already manager Brian McDermott has a selection dilemma on his hands…what to do with Dom Poleon?

It’s been no secret since the end of last season that the new boss is an admirer of Leeds’ latest young hotshot. After the stunning win at Watford, McDermott hailed Poleon as a “real asset” for the season ahead. It seems he was right. Dom has had a stellar pre-season, netting more times than any other striker on the wage bill at Elland Road. Against Brighton he was used as an impact substitute, along with new signing Matt Smith. Both played a vital role in turning the game in Leeds’ favour. Poleon hassles and runs at defenders, he also has something the team still lacks, pace. On Sunday against a star-studded Leicester team, he showed more creativity than any other in the final third. Surely then, his recent performances warrant a first-team start?

New boy Noel Hunt takes up the role that Poleon would take if he were to start. Although he hasn’t caught the eye with scintillating performances or a stack full of goals, he works very hard to create chances. To me, Hunt seems to be more of a poacher when it comes to goals, whereas Poleon works opportunities for himself. However, a fan rightly suggested to me on twitter, that defenders would rather be facing Hunt than Poleon at the moment.

It would seem that young Dom could well earn a start against Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday. However, it seems McDermott will stick by Hunt for now, and use Poleon from the bench. Last season the squad lacked depth, and at times when a game needed changing, there was nobody on the bench to do that. Poleon fills that gap. We also have to remember that Dom is still very young, his game suits the impact role, where he can run at tired defenders and cause problems.

So is Dominic Poleon best used as an impact sub, or is he a 90-minute man? Have your say here: