'Massive blow' - Leeds employee bemoans huge injury setback amid remarkable Phil Hay tweet

Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has bemoaned the injury picked up by Stuart Dallas, describing it as a ‘massive blow’ for the Whites.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side were beaten 3-0 at Everton in the Premier League on Saturday but that wasn’t the only negative to come out of a hugely disappointing afternoon.

Dallas left the pitch with an injury in just the ninth minute at Goodison Park, in what was a worrying sight for Leeds supporters.

As pointed out by journalist Phil Hay on Twitter, the Northern Irishman has started 106 of the Whites’ last 107 league fixtures, highlighting what a reliable presence he has been for Bielsa.

Leeds club ambassador Whelan has rued Dallas’ injury setback as the 47-year-old gave his thoughts to Football Insider, saying:

“It’s a massive blow. Once again, the injury list grows at Leeds United. He’s a very important, consistent player – and someone who can play in a lot of positions.

“He’s been so important for two or three seasons now and the energy he brings to our side is irreplaceable. He’ll be sorely missed if it’s long term. I’m sure they’ll be assessing him this week and deciding whether he will need a recovery window.

“Him going off early in the game was crucial for the game. It helped push Everton on while just holding Leeds back.”

Leeds have been without a number of key players for large chunks of this season, including Liam Cooper, Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford, and Dallas can now be added to that list.

If the versatile midfielder is missing for a while, it will be another hammer blow in a disappointing season for the Whites, given his ability to thrive in several positions, including both full-back roles.

The hope is that Dallas’ injury is only a minor one and he is back as soon