Leeds United have been hit by a major injury blow after Stuart Dallas limped off injured during Northern Ireland’s World Cup qualifying defeat to Switzerland on Thursday.
The winger, who was making his 26th international appearance for his country, was forced out of the game just seven minutes after the second half following a tackle from after Swiss centre back Fabian Schar that manager Michael O’Neill said deserved a red card.
Leeds boss Thomas Christiansen will be hoping that Dallas can make a speedy recovery and be fit for the team’s Championship clash against Middlesbrough on Sunday of next week.
The Dane hailed Dallas as the ideal team man after he signed a new three-year contract in September.
Christiansen said, as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post: “We all know what Stuart is able to do. This is why I wanted to renew (his contract).
“We know what he is able to give the team and for sure he will have his opportunities. There are still many games to come and he will have his games from the beginning.”
OPINION
Dallas has not had the game time he would have liked this season, even though he has been involved in 12 of Leeds’ Championship fixtures, which just two of them coming from the start. But his versatility, adaptability and team-first ethos make him a key member of the squad, as does his goalscoring ability. The Northern Irishman has scored twice as a substitute this season, and he will be needed as the season goes on. Every team needs a player like Dallas, and Christiansen knows he is lucky to have him.