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Jamie Shackleton’s new Leeds contract an underrated piece of business this summer
What made Leeds United’s second-half performance at Aston Villa on Friday so impressive was the number of players who found themselves deployed in a less natural position.
Marcelo Bielsa’s first-choice left-back was at right-back. The right-back was at centre-back. Mateusz Klich moved from an eight to holding midfield to replace a centre-back who had started the game there.
Meanwhile, Spain striker Rodrigo is establishing himself as a fantastic number 10 behind Patrick Bamford.
But it was also a night in which a couple of younger players got further chances. Pascal Struijk started. And it was Jamie Shackleton who came on for the Dutchman after his early yellow card.
Shackleton has actually now made 43 league appearances for the Whites during his career. But he arguably remains a player still working his way towards establishing himself in Bielsa’s plans.
And in truth, it would probably come as little surprise if he returned to the bench for Monday’s clash with Leicester City due to the depth that Leeds currently boast.
However, following his performance at Villa Park, it is surely fair to suggest that one of the most underrated pieces of business the Whites did this summer involved the 21-year-old.
that Shackleton has extended his contract until 2024.
It was arguably a big vote of confidence in Shackleton with the club working on making marquee signings at the same time.
Shackleton steps up once again
The supporters would not have been surprised to see the youngster impress after coming on against the Villans. His energy in the middle of the park seemed to make a big difference. And he did play a role in Leeds’s third goal in particular.
He is a player who has tended to step up whenever Bielsa has turned to him. Of course, he thrived as a right-back during the early stages of the Leeds boss’ tenure.
It may be a little while before he is really contending for a starting spot. But his presence is hugely important in pushing his teammates. They know that Bielsa has a player up his sleeve who rarely produces anything worse than a 7/10 performance whenever he is called upon.
And when you consider that Shackleton is still developing, and has rarely enjoyed a lengthy run in the side, it seems frightening to think how good he could become.
Signing the likes of Rodrigo and Robin Koch in the summer was unquestionably inspired. But Friday acted as a reminder that handing Shackleton a new contract was also incredibly smart.