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image description, Stuart Dallas received a standing ovation at half-time of Leeds United's Championship game against Blackburn Rovers at Elland Road after announcing his retirement in early April
Retired Leeds United and Northern Ireland midfielder Stuart Dallas says he has considered coaching or management.
He says he will have discussions with Leeds about his career after the game ends but is “excited about what the future holds”.
“Life throws these things at you and you have to adapt,” Dallas said.
Speaking to ` Sport NI at the 2024 European Under-19 Championship draw – where hosts Northern Ireland face Norway, Italy and Ukraine – Dallas said it had been an “emotional few weeks” since his retirement was announced.
“Now that I have it out there, I’m relieved because I’ve known about it for a few weeks,” he added.
“Retirement would always come at some point, for me it just came a little earlier than expected.”
“I’m lucky to have had the career that I’ve had and I’m excited for the future.”
“A big transition”
video caption, “It’s coming for all of us, just a little too soon for me” – Stuart Dallas on his retirement
When asked if he would consider coaching or managing after his career ends, Dallas admitted that “I've thought about it.”
“It’s a big transition from player to management or coach,” he added.
“Right now I want to take time over the summer and enjoy time with my family because it has been a tough road for them over the last few years to deal with the setbacks I have suffered.”
“I want to enjoy the summer with them, take a little break and switch off completely. I still have to have a few discussions with the club about what direction I will take. They will take place when the time is right.”
Leeds currently sit third in the Championship with three games remaining, two points behind leaders Ipswich Town.
Dallas says his focus is to be there for his teammates as they push for an immediate return to the Premier League.
“Right now I'm just trying to finish the season,” added Dallas, who played at Elland Road for nine years.
“Nothing changes for me. I still go to rehab every day, am part of the team and shoot every ball like I did.”
“They have been a big part of my life and my career. It's important that I be as positive as possible on ground and help the boys when I can, but I have confidence in the group of players and managers that we can be where we wanted to be at the start of the year.
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