Leonardo Ulloa and the art of patience

Leicester City frontman Leonardo Ulloa (15/8 to enjoy a top 10 finish with Leicester City) has surpassed expectations since his arrival at the King Power Stadium, and his goal scoring exploits have finally earned some well-deserved recognition across the pond.

With an impressive tally of five goals in five Premier League games, Ulloa is just two behind Diego Costa in the race to be top scorer. Whilst it is still early days, the Argentine is notably ahead of compatriot Sergio Aguero, who has significantly more expensive support artists surrounding him at Manchester City.

Now there is talk of new Argentina boss ‘Tata’ Martino making tentative overtures towards Ulloa, and the 28-year-old has certainly earned a chance to show what he can do for his homeland.

More than just a fox in the box, Leicester’s record signing has illustrated during his time in British football’s top two tiers that he has more strings to his bow than merely timing tap-ins.

Manchester United were spectators of the Argentine’s heading ability and spot-kick composure last time out, but Ulloa has also proven to be a willing worker and grafter, with excellent movement and smooth link-up play.

The sharp striker would certainly stand out like a sore thumb amongst his potential national team peers, who boast superstars such as Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Angel Di Maria and, of course, Lionel Messi. These blockbuster names have all plied their trade for some of the world’s best, and were always tipped for the top.

Ulloa did not emerge from the ranks of illustrious domestic sides such as Boca Juniors or River Plate, instead toiling with teams such as San Lorenzo and Club Olimpo, before making the switch to Spanish minnows Castellon.

Finally finding his comfort zone with the Iberian outfit, late-bloomer Ulloa honed his talents to become the prolific poacher he is today. He netted 30 times in 78 league games, all of which earned him a move to Almeria, where he enjoyed a similar purple patch.

British football soon took notice, with Brighton and Hove Albion reportedly plucking him away from the Spanish side for the tune of around £2m. Ulloa repaid them in style, contributing 23 Championship goals last term.