Leeds United have confirmed that Stuart Dallas suffered a broken leg in their bruising 4-0 defeat to Manchester City.
The Northern Ireland international, 31, collided with Jack Grealish midway through the first half and faces a long spell on the sidelines, unable to help Jesse Marsch 's side in their fight to avoid relegation. A statement read: "Stuart Dallas faces a lengthy period out of action due to a femoral fracture sustained in yesterday's Premier League game with Manchester City.
"Stuart was kept overnight at Leeds General Infirmary and will now travel to London for surgery and further tests. It is impossible to put into words just how important Stuart is to Leeds United on and off the field. Anyone who knows Stuart, knows he will come back from this stronger than ever, and in the meantime, he is sure to make his presence known at both Thorp Arch and Elland Road."
Post-match, manager Marsch admitted to reporters: "I don't think it's good with his knee and obviously with way we are, we will miss him very much because he is in many ways the heart and soul as a leader. Someone who stands up to big challenges. Our hearts and minds with him and his family. We wish him a speedy recovery."
The American, who took over from Marcelo Bielsa in March, added: "He's the heart and soul. He will be missed, but you have to think about the person and hope he's going to be okay. All our minds with him and his family."
Dallas' injury came with the scoreline 1-0 to City, as Leeds battled the champions before a second-half collapse. Despite Rodri 's opening goal after 13 minutes, the Yorkshire side troubled Pep Guardiola and co, squandering multiple opportunities.
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Eventually, City's quality prevailed, with Nathan Ake and Gabriel Jesus sealing the three points before club captain Fernandinho scored what could be his last goal for the club. Guardiola was full of praise for Leeds' effort and the atmosphere at Elland Road, saying: "Since I arrived I heard many times about Elland Road and what it means.
"The previous time we came here, we drew. Marcelo Bielsa was the manager and it was behind the closed doors, so I could not feel it. Today, I feel it and I understand how this place is so special. Not just at the end. I always admire the clubs, losing 3-0, 4-0, fighting to stay in the Premier League, singing and chanting and being supportive.
"I can imagine every time they caught a transition and throws and corners how the people [...] Leeds is one of the greatest teams in this country. I have a special sympathy for the fact Marcelo was here and hopefully they can stay. That’s why we spoke with the guys about how tough it will be."
