Leeds United: Kalvin Phillips reacts to big Stuart Dallas news | OneFootball

Kalvin Phillips has reacted to the news that former Leeds United teammate Stuart Dallas has had to retire from professional football at the age of 32.

The Northern Irishman suffered a broken leg almost two years ago, and he hasn't played a game since after suffering: "irreparable knee damage," which has cut his playing career short.

Dallas said, in a statement on his Instagram: "Today, with a heavy heart, I announce that I will be retiring from professional football. Over the past two years, the Leeds United medical team, along with the incredible surgeons in London, have helped tirelessly to help me recover from the injury that I suffered in the game against Manchester City in 2022.

"Sadly, despite their best efforts, and my body not progressing how we need it to, I must now accept that fact that my knee suffered irreparable damage and I will not be returning to play professional football."

He thanked all of the clubs that he had played for, and sent this special message to the Whites' fans. "My final thanks must go to you, the Leeds United fans,"said the 32-year-old. "Your passion and love for this team and this city is what makes Leeds so special. As the famous anthem goes 'we've been through it all together and we've had our ups and downs'.

"I've been lucky enough to have shared your joy within the wonderful stadium that is Elland Road. Leeds United is now well and truly in my blood. I have memories that will remain with me forever and I look forward to joining you in the stands as Daniel Farke and the team aim to take us back to the Premier League and beyond."

Leeds' Swiss Army knife shared the pitch with Kalvin Phillips many times. The Man City man, who is currently on loan at West Ham United, and has been linked with a return to Elland Road, sent this message to Dallas on his retirement, on his Instagram story.

"What a man @stuart_dallas15. Absolute hero ❤️❤️❤️."

Another of the players who won promotion to the Premier League with Dallas in the 2019/20 season was Pablo Hernandez. The Spaniard also responded to the Northern Irishman's retirement, and said: "i love you Stu……its been pleasure playing with you bro…..big player and very very big person….goods things are coming for you😘❤️."

Two other former teammates of Dallas, who have since moved on from the club, Luke Ayling and Jack Clarke, also sent messages of support to him. The Sunderland winger said: "What a player and what a man! Wishing you all the best Stu❤️," and the now Middlesbrough full-back added: "Love you mate 🤍🤍🤍."

Stuart Dallas: a Leeds legend

Dallas will be even more disappointed about the fact that he wasn't able to try and help Leeds achieve survival last season, and he hasn't featured for them in their promotion push this season, but what a career at Elland Road he has had.

He was instrumental in the side's promotion in the 19/20, playing all but one game for the Whites. He scored five times and registered three assists in that campaign.

His goalscoring exploits became legendary among Premier League fans, not just those of a Leeds persuasion, in their first season back in the top flight.

Playing predominantly as a full-back, he registered eight goals in that season, and he was a consistent figure in a side that finished just two points behind Arsenal.

It's sad that his career has been cut short because of that terrible injury. But he should be remembered, mostly, for the incredible work that he did on the pitch to help Leeds reach the heights that he did.