By Pranav Shahaney

16th Sep, 2023 | 5:10pm

Leeds United midfielder Stuart Dallas return stance shared by Phil Hay

Leeds United midfielder Stuart Dallas is working very hard in training but it remains hard to predict when he returns to first-team football, according to Phil Hay.

The Athletic journalist believes that the Northern Ireland international is assured in his mind of returning for the Whites.

However, decisions will need to be taken once he’s in contention over how he’s looking and whether or not he’s in a condition physically to cope with the demands of the game.

Hay said on the Square Ball ahead of the Millwall clash at 37:30, “I think he’s got it very much in his head that he absolutely wants to get back and from what I’m being told, he’s been cracking the whip to try and get to that point. I think it will be very difficult to predict until he starts playing again is what he’s going to look like and physically how he’s going to be because it’s not as if football is getting any less intense or slower.”

Big miss

Dallas’ ability to play in a number of positions, including central midfield and various defensive roles, made him a valuable asset for the Whites.

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Despite being on the other side of 30, the Northern Irishman is known for his high work rate and tireless running on the pitch as he often covered a lot of ground during matches, contributing both defensively and offensively.

That’s why it comes as no surprise why Marcelo Bielsa rated the midfielder so highly.

He’s been a reliable performer for Leeds and his consistent performances made him a trusted member of the squad, and he was often a fixture in the starting lineup.

The 32-year-old endeared himself to the Elland Road faithful not only through his performances but also his commitment to the club and he became a fan favourite due to his hard work and dedication on the pitch so his absence is sorely being felt.

In other Leeds United news, a Whites player now faces over 12 weeks out of action due to injury if the worst-case scenario takes place.