Injured Northern Ireland international Stuart Dallas determined to resume playing career — Belfast Telegraph 26/3/24
Graham Luney
Stuart Dallas says he’s still determined to resume his
playing career.
The Leeds United player has not played for club or country
since breaking his leg in late April 2022.
He suffered a femoral fracture in a 4-0 home defeat to
Manchester City and underwent surgery.
Former Crusaders hero Dallas has linked up with the Northern
Ireland squad during his rehabilitation, but it has been hugely frustrating
time for the 32-year-old.
He has played more than 250 games for the West Yorkshire
club since joining from Brentford in 2015 while his international caps tally
sits on 62.
“I’m doing okay,” said Dallas. “It’s almost two years since
the injury but I am doing okay and working towards trying to get back before
the end of the season. I’m doing everything I can to do that.”
Earlier this month, Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill
shared his concerns about Dallas’ recovery.
“I think there is always a concern. Stuart’s injury is well
documented,” said O’Neill.
“He is almost two years out at this point so in the modern
era that is a huge chunk of football to miss.
“There’s constant dialogue between Stuart and myself and the
medical team.
“His decision will obviously come to a head.”
The Cookstown man made his international debut against Wales
in Dublin back in 2011 and as well as wearing the armband he played a key role
in the fairytale Euro 2016 journey to France.
He began his career with Coagh United and has also played
for Brentford and Northampton Town.
Dallas’ former international team-mate Steven Davis was
forced to announce his retirement in January after a long spell out through
injury.
