Jamie Shackleton has ‘done no harm’ to new Leeds United contract chances as ‘stop-gap’ verdict shared
Jamie Shackleton has “done no harm” to his chances of earning a new Leeds United contract, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Joe Donnohue.
The journalist noted that a new Whites deal could be in the offing for the 23-year-old midfielder, whose contract expires next summer.
Shackleton, who can also play in defence, has made six appearances for the West Yorkshire club in all competitions so far this season.
“While a fresh contract offer is yet to be tabled, the soon-to-be father has done no harm to his chances of receiving one through his consistent displays at the beginning of 2023/24,” Donnohue wrote for the Yorkshire Evening Post.
“Shackleton has started five of Leeds’ seven matches in all competitions so far this season, playing four different positions: left-back, right-back, central midfield and right-wing.
“His natural stamina and tactical malleability make him an effective stop-gap for a number of roles but it’s most likely his minutes will come in the wide areas this season after the signings of Ilia Gruev and Glen Kamara to supplement the existing midfield pairing of Ethan Ampadu and Archie Gray.”
Great asset
Having a versatile player like Shackleton is a huge plus for Leeds manager Daniel Farke in his search for promotion to the Premier League.
The 23-year-old has proven his ability to his new boss in the early stages of the new season, both in the Championship and the League Cup.
His minutes on the pitch could, of course, rapidly decline when the likes of Junior Firpo and Sam Byram return from injury, with the duo seemingly coming back to action very soon.
Still, Shackleton will no doubt continue to fill in as and when required, which will be very helpful given his club’s busy fixture list.
And with his contract expiring next summer, it is certainly time for the powers that be to at least think about an extension.
It would be foolish to lose such a player for free at the end of his contract, particularly one that has been so useful when times have been desperate at Elland Road.
In other Leeds United news, one Whites player is “delighted” to be involved in a selection debate at Elland Road this season.