Leeds United: Stuart Dallas concerns raised as contract running out
Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill has raised concerns about Leeds United midfielder Stuart Dallas.
The 32-year-old has not been available for two years as a broken femur sustained in the Premier League has kept him out of action.
O’Neill has discussed his Elland Road exit with his deal running out in the summer and has also revealed that Dallas has remained in behind-the-scenes talks.
As quoted by the Belfast Telegraph on 19 March, he said: “I think there is always a concern. Stuart’s injury is well documented.
“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.
“Both players are out of contract at the end of the season with their respective clubs.
“I think they know what will determine their involvement at international level will be the next phase of their career — your club career always dictates your international career.”
No new Leeds United contract on the cards for Stuart Dallas?
Players often face a pivotal juncture in their careers when injuries or age begin to impact their performance and availability for both club and international duties.
In such situations, retiring from international duty becomes a common strategy for prolonging one’s club career.
By stepping away from the additional physical demands and travel commitments of international football, players can focus on rehabilitating injuries, maintaining peak fitness and maximising their contributions to their club teams.
For Dallas, the decision regarding his international future holds significant weight given his prolonged absence due to injury.
While Leeds may continue to offer support and rehabilitation facilities, the prospect of securing a new contract with the club seems uncertain, especially considering his age and the severity of his injury.
In this context, retiring from international duty could offer Dallas the opportunity to concentrate fully on his club career, potentially extending his time at Leeds or opening up opportunities with other clubs that prioritise consistent availability and performance.
Ultimately, Dallas must carefully weigh his options to ensure the best path forward for his career and long-term health.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites have already started scouting a defender who plans to return to England in the summer transfer window.
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