Stuart Dallas, a stalwart in the world of football, has officially hung up his boots at the age of 32, bidding farewell to a career that spanned over a decade.
His decision comes in the wake of a serious injury sustained during a clash with Manchester City in April 2022, which left him with a fractured right femur. Despite a valiant attempt at a comeback, Dallas faced the harsh reality of irreversible damage to his knee, forcing him to embrace retirement.
In expressing his gratitude, Dallas reserved heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering support of Leeds United’s staff, management, and medical team during his darkest moments.
He singled out Rob Price, Henry McStay, and Ruben Crespo for their tireless efforts in providing him with top-notch medical care, acknowledging Leeds United as home to the finest medical team in his eyes.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the staff, management and medical team at Leeds United for their outstanding support during some dark days,” Dallas’ added. “I truly believe we have the greatest medical team around and special thanks must go to Rob Price, Henry McStay and Ruben Crespo who have worked around the clock to give me the best medical attention that I have needed.
“To my team-mates over the years, nationally and domestically, there are too many to mention but you know who you are, friends for life. A special mention must go to Liam Cooper, who I’ve been with since I first walked through the doors at Thorp Arch many years ago. An incredible captain, team-mate, friend and player whose talent and contribution to the team often goes unrecognised. The man is truly a wonderful human.
“My final thanks must go to you, the Leeds United fans. Your passion and love for this team and city is what makes Leeds so special. You really are the 12th man. As the famous anthem goes, ‘We’ve been through it all together and we’ve had our ups and downs’.
“I’ve been lucky enough to have shared your joy within the wonderful stadium that is Elland Road. Leeds United is now well and truly in my blood, I have memories that will remain with me forever and I look forward to joining you in the stands as Daniel Farke and the team aim to take us back to the Premier League and beyond.
“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.”
Addressing his fellow teammates, both on the national and domestic fronts, Dallas cherished the bonds forged over the years, labeling them as friendships for life. A special mention was dedicated to Liam Cooper, a longstanding comrade whose leadership and camaraderie left an indelible mark on Dallas’s career journey.
Dallas’s heartfelt farewell extended to the fervent Leeds United fans, whom he hailed as the lifeblood of the club. He credited their unwavering passion and loyalty as instrumental in making Leeds United a force to be reckoned with. Reflecting on shared moments of triumph and tribulation within the hallowed grounds of Elland Road, Dallas pledged his allegiance to the club, eagerly anticipating the next chapter as a devoted supporter.
With 266 appearances for Leeds United since his arrival from Brentford in 2015, Dallas emerged as a linchpin in the Marcelo Bielsa era, notably playing a pivotal role in the club’s triumphant return to the Premier League. His unwavering commitment was exemplified by his participation in all 38 league games during the subsequent season, cementing his status as a revered figure among the Leeds faithful.
Dallas’s footballing journey commenced in his homeland of Northern Ireland, where he honed his skills at Coagh United before making a significant leap to Crusaders in the NIFL Premiership. A pivotal move beckoned as he ventured into English football, donning the colors of Brentford in 2012, a stint that laid the groundwork for his illustrious career trajectory.
On the international stage, Dallas proudly represented Northern Ireland, earning 62 senior caps and etching his name in the annals of history with three goals to his credit. His crowning moment arrived at the 2016 European Championship, where he played a pivotal role in Northern Ireland’s historic campaign, marking their first major tournament appearance in three decades.
As the curtain falls on his illustrious playing career, Stuart Dallas leaves behind a legacy defined by passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to the beautiful game. Though his days on the pitch may have come to an end, his enduring love for football and cherished memories will forever resonate within the hearts of fans worldwide.