WHITES ICON STU FORCED TO CALL IT A DAY
STUART Dallas says he is gutted but at peace after being forced to retire through injury at the age of 32.
The Leeds and Northern Ireland star - who has played in virtually every outfield position - has not featured for the Whites since breaking his leg against Manchester City in April 2022.
Dallas suffered a femoral fracture attempting to tackle City star Jack Grealish, and subsequently underwent seven different surgeries. He returned to training last month but made the decision to retire after realising he was “miles off ” his previous level.
“It’s a decision which I’m really clear in my mind is the right decision,” said Dallas, who made over 250 appearances for Leeds after joining from Brentford in 2015.
“All along, I never lost hope of making a comeback. But more and more over the last few months, I’ve realised it was going
to be really difficult. My body just won’t get back to doing what I need to do at an elite level.
“I’ve got to deal with that and accept it. Mentally, I’m totally fine. I’m at peace with it. I’m gutted but there are people in far worse positions than me.
“As sad as it is that my career as a player is over, I can look back with so many happy memories, representing the country that I love and a team that has made such an impact on my life. Leeds is a place I will call home forever.”
In a statement, the club said: “Stuart is an icon of Leeds United and will always be welcome at Elland Road. His contribution will live long in the memory and he has cemented his place in history.
“We are currently in discussions with Stuart about a future role to continue his association with the club going forwards.”