New Leeds United appointment confirmed at Thorp Arch after Derby County exit

A replacement has been confirmed at the head of Leeds United’s medical department following Rob Price’s departure to Derby County. Henry McStay, who first arrived as an academy physiotherapist in 2012, has been named head of medicine at Thorp Arch.

The 39-year-old was originally a centre-back with United until 2005, but eventually moved on without making a first-team appearance. He then returned in a medical capacity seven years later and has now advanced to the top of the department.

McStay is an immensely popular member of staff at the training ground and, as one of the first men into the breach when a player goes down injured during a game, will be a face familiar to thousands of supporters. The Northern Irishman has been one of the key men working with players through the most severe injuries at the club in recent years.

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Stuart Dallas retired before the end of last season after two years of trying to get over a catastrophic leg break in 2022. The utility man singled out McStay for praise in his open letter after deciding to call it quits.

“I truly believe we have the greatest medical team around and special thanks must go to Rob Price, Henry McStay and Ruben Crespo who have worked around the clock to give me the best medical attention that I have needed,” he said.

McStay will report to head of football operations Adam Underwood after his promotion. McStay’s former boss, Price, ended six years at Thorp Arch last month by taking up a position as sports science and medical lead with the Rams, who visit Elland Road in the Championship next season.