Leeds United captain Liam Cooper and former Whites captain Pablo Hernandez have reacted to Stuart Dallas’ announcement that he will be retiring from football.
The Northern Irish international stated in a statement on Wednesday (10 April) that he would retire at the conclusion of the season, having last played for Leeds in April 2022.
Dallas, who sought to return to activity over the last two years, has realized that a knee injury has caused irreversible damage, but he has received a lot of support from former and current teammates.
Cooper wrote on X on Wednesday (10 April): “My best pal!” Thank you. What a player, but also such a wonderful person. Life may be very brutal at times.
“Just know that the same fight you had to get back in shape will help you succeed in whatever comes next. We love you, pal, and will always be here for you. LEGEND!”
Similarly, on his Instagram (10 April), Hernandez wrote, “Legend!! All the best for the future, bro!! “We love you.”
Has Stuart Dallas, the Leeds United great, retired following his injury?
It is never nice to see a player forced into retirement due to injury, and this is especially true for Dallas, who has fought tirelessly in recent years to return to the Elland Road surface.
While it is unfortunate for everyone connected at Leeds, this decision was not made lightly, and both Dallas and those in power at Thorp Arch were likely aware that this was coming for some time.
The players of the team that was so successful under Marcelo Bielsa in the Premier League and Championship appear to be breaking up in front of fans’ eyes, with the majority of the group now leaving Elland Road.
Hopefully, Daniel Farke will be able to do something exceptional this season to leave his mark on Leeds’ history and ensure Dallas leaves as a winner, even if he hasn’t been able to put on his boots.
