Jamie Shackleton basically guaranteed new Leeds United contract

Mark Smith is a lifelong Leeds United fan thanks to his dad and was forced to grow up watching the -15 season and fallout from Premier League relegation in the early 2000s. He’s now putting his passion for the Whites into words with a regular fan view for MOT Leeds News…

Jamie Shackleton has always been in and around the first-team picture at Elland Road, without ever making a lasting impact in a Leeds United shirt.

That isn’t a dig at the young defender, and he has caught the eye as a utility option when needed, as Daniel Farke has mentioned numerous times this season.

Given all of that, there is a big question mark now surrounding his future with his contract running out in the upcoming summer at the end of this season.

FA Cup chance to pass by at Leeds

Playing only one minute of Championship action since October, cup competitions are where players like Shackleton need to make an impact.

That is why we all felt sorry for him when it was confirmed that he was a “major doubt” for the trip to Plymouth on Tuesday 6 February in the FA Cup fourth-round replay with an illness.

Despite this, hope is not lost whatsoever about a new contract.

Farke confirmed that he will be looked after in the coming months before his deal expires at Elland Road, meaning a new contract may as well be guaranteed.

Leeds United
Jamie Shackleton seems set to join Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United from Leeds

This will be something to watch in the coming weeks and months, but not many will have any complaints.

We have all been guilty of demanding more from Shackleton before, but he is ticking many boxes for Farke right now and that versatility will always be a real weapon for any club.

That new contract looks to be basically guaranteed now, with secret talks suspected last year too.

In other Leeds United news, OIi McBurnie has reacted after the Whites agreed terms for a last-ditch signing, with Pavel Nedved named.

For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.