Leeds United journalist Beren Cross has offered his reaction to the news that Stuart Dallas is running again at Thorp Arch. 

The lowdown

Dallas has been out of action since 30 April, when he fractured his femur in a 4-0 defeat against Manchester City at Elland Road.

Manager Jesse Marsch said at the time that Dallas would make a full recovery but would face at least six months on the sidelines (via The Athletic).

But now Dallas has been pictured on the running track at Leeds' training ground with fitness coach Ruben Crespo.

Marsch said in his press conference ahead of the game against Southampton that it's 'exciting' to see him 'moving around on the pitch' again.

The latest

Cross, a journalist at Leeds Live, feels it's 'incredible' that Dallas is back running 'just 104 days' after sustaining his injury.

In the attached story, he says the 'return to outdoor work does not necessarily move the goalposts' on his comeback, but stresses that his progress has been 'remarkable'.

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The verdict

Marsch has been keen to manage expectations, refusing to suggest that Dallas might be back of schedule.

"It's much too early to start talking about the prognosis and a timetable for Stuart, but any of you who know Stuart know his energy and his positivity and his personality is so amazing," he said.

One thing that is clear is that it will be a big boost for the boss when his versatile Northern Irishman is eventually back in contention.

Dallas was almost an automatic pick prior to his injury, starting 34 out of 35 Premier League matches for the Whites.

In the words of the boss, he's a 'big presence' in the team and has a 'positive impact' on the group.