Stuart Dallas has revealed social media criticism drove him to the best season of his career as he helped Leeds United back into the Premier League.
The Northern Ireland international has been at Elland Road since 2015, having made the move from Brentford after beginning his career back in his home country.
His time with the Whites hasn’t always been plain sailing, and the 29-year-old has been subjected to some harsh criticism on social media over the years.
Dallas though has told BBC Radio Ulster's that the criticism is "just the way the world is now", and he’s managed to use it as a driving force behind ending Leeds’ 16-year wait for a place back in the top flight.
"You get things said, 'you're not good enough in a Championship-winning side'. That drives me on," said Dallas, speaking to the BBC.
"You're there to be shot down. It's not something to complain about.
"It comes from the world of social media where you can't please everybody."
While Dallas has had his own personal drives, the arrival of Marcelo Bielsa has also been a huge boost for all of the players at United over the past couple of years.
The Argentine has won praise for the way he galvanised his side after the disappointment of falling at the play-offs last season, and led them back into the top flight.
"He's a special man and I'll never have the words to thank him,” Dallas added. “What he has done for me both off and on the pitch.
"He's made me a better person and not just me - everybody.
"When you saw the emotion on his face and how he celebrated with us the players, it stays with you.
"It's not too often you get a hug from him but on Friday night he made sure he went round every single person and hugged them."
