Robbie Keane and Pablo Hernandez pay tribute to Leeds United stalwart after retirement bombshell

Tributes have flooded in from players past and present for Stuart Dallas after the Leeds United and Northern Ireland midfielder announced his retirement from professional football. The 32-year-old has called time on his career, having been sidelined since April 2022 due to a serious knee injury suffered against Manchester City in the Premier League.

Dallas racked up 266 appearances for United, scoring 28 goals. He also featured 62 times for Northern Ireland.

United supporters will be able to show their support, respect and appreciation for Dallas, who will be introduced onto the pitch at half-time of Saturday’s Championship fixture against Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road, along with his family.

Read more: Stuart Dallas announces retirement as Leeds United discuss new role and chance to pay respect

Ex-Whites defender Dominic Matteo and Sunderland winger Jack Clarke, a former graduate of United's youth system, are among the players to have paid tribute to Dallas. Matteo posted on Instagram: "Stu, you're a class act mate and I wish you nothing but the best in whatever's next."

Clarke, who lined up against his former club last night as Sunderland left West Yorkshire with a share of the spoils, wrote: "What a player and what a man! Wishing you all the best, Stu."

Here is a selection of other footballers and sportsmen who have wished Dallas well for the future following today's announcement.

Former United midfielder Pablo Hernandez: "I love you Stu....it has been a pleasure playing with you bro....big player and very, very big person....good things are coming for you."

Arsenal and England midfielder Declan Rice: "Congrats on an amazing career mate. All the best in the future."

Leeds United club captain Liam Cooper: “My best pal! Thank you. What a player but what an even better person. Life can be seriously cruel at times. Just know the same fight you had to get back fit is the same fight that will make you successful in whatever is next. We Love ya pal and will always be here for ya. LEGEND!”

United teammate Sam Greenwood: "Legend. All the best Stu."

Darts world champion and United fan Luke Humphries: "What a player you have been throughout your career! Be incredibly proud of the things achieved as a footballer. Gutted to never see you play again but I am wishing you all the best for the future mate!"

Ex-United striker Robbie Keane: "Congrats on a great career mate. What a player and more importantly a great person...good luck in your next chapter pal."

Former Leeds midfielder Mateusz Klich: “It’s been [a] pleasure playing with you my friend. All the best.”