Tyler Adams pronounced himself an "energetic player" and "a competitor" after signing a five-year deal with Leeds United at the start of July. He has since proven as much.
The 23-year-old arrived at Elland Road from RB Leipzig in a deal thought to be worth around £20 million and has quickly become a fans favourite, starting 13 of the Whites' 14 Premier League matches so far this season.
Whilst his leadership credentials, desire to win and consistency were no shock to Jesse Marsch, he first met Adams as a 15-year-old whilst with New York Red Bulls, supporters could have been forgiven for not knowing what to expect from the American midfielder.
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Having joined in the days following Kalvin Phillips' departure to Manchester City, the magnitude of Adams' impact cannot be underestimated. The much-loved Phillips had vacated a sizable void.
Both visually and statistically, his performances have stood out. Benefitting from Jesse Marsch's counter-pressing playing style, the 23-year-old has attempted the second-most tackles of any player in the top-flight. With 52 challenges, only Fulham's Joao Palhinha has attempted more (65).
Underlying statistics highlight his influence further. Adams has recovered the eighth-most loose balls (105) in the Premier League, only the likes of Rodri and Declan Rice can claim to be more dominant.
Adams has arguably been his side's player of the season thus far, with his one-game absence cumulating in a damaging 3-2 defeat by Fulham.
After being sent off against Tottenham Hotspur last time out, Leeds' return to Premier League action on December, 28 against Manchester City appears even more daunting.
Supporters may not bring themselves to think about it just yet, but a strong showing in Qatar could leave Leeds needing to replace the man who was deemed as a replacement himself just over four months ago.
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