Daniel Farke has told Friday’s press conference that Stuart Dallas is “perfect” to have around the Leeds United team even if he is only doing his rehab – but refused to give a timescale on the midfielder’s return to action, after injury.
Dallas, 32, has failed to turn out for Leeds since his broken leg against Manchester City back in April 2022. It means that come Sunday, Dallas will have missed the last 49 games. His contract at Elland Road is due to expire in 2024.
Leeds could do with the experienced Northern Ireland star. The club are lacking in quality at left-back. Junior Firpo is likely to go. Estadio Deportivo say his agents are in ‘frequent’ talks with La Liga sides. Leo Hjelde is our top option.
We are also lacking in the middle of the park and it is likely to see Archie Gray, 17, start alongside new recruit Ethan Ampadu. Farke was asked about Dallas and when the club can expect to see the ex-Brentford man return to action.
“It’s not possible to give a timescale. It was a bad injury, we have to make sure he comes back as strong as possible. There’s no rush, we have to be careful. He gets all the time in the world because he has done so much for this club.
“He is such an important player – but also in the dressing room. I love to have him around even when he is doing his rehab. Perfect personality. Important we give him all the time he needs. But it is too quick to give a time frame.”
Farke: Dallas perfect to have around Leeds squad, no timescale on return
Farke spoke well about Dallas, and even without the versatile ace playing, it is clear he has made a quick impression on the Leeds gaffer. Hopefully, it is not too long before he can get back out on the grass and training with the team.
But where Georginio Rutter, who is young and only out for the first two games, can come back after his injury and go straight into the side – Dallas is going to need time. Everything will take longer. Fingers crossed he is back soon.
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