Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa faces a selection headache for the coming months after Luke Ayling picked up an injury in the 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest, with it since being confirmed that he will be out of action for at least two months.
That has left the Peacocks short of options at the back, with Gaetano Berardi also injured, and the most obvious replacement to fill the void appears to be Stuart Dallas – who is naturally a winger but can also fill in at the back when required.
However, fans on social media have made it clear they are not happy with Dallas’ performances as a defender and have urged Marcelo Bielsa to look elsewhere, as they push for young Jamie Shackleton to be handed an opportunity.
The 19-year-old has made four appearances for Leeds so far this season, contributing one assist, and plenty of supporters believe he should be handed further chances in the first-team in Ayling’s absence.
We have gathered some of the best reactions below.
Ayling 2 months out πͺππ hope whoever settles in to his place . Shackleton over Dallas for me . #lufc
— James (@jimmy_L_UFC) October 29, 2018
Would prefer Jamie Shackleton at right-back for Leeds next game rather than Stuart Dallas #lufc #mot
— Ryan (@LeedsUtdRyan) October 30, 2018
Shackleton at right back please not Dallas.
β John Paul Redmond (@john_leeds25) October 30, 2018
Will probably be Dallas but Iβd be very tempted to Put Shackleton in. Iβve seen enough of Dallas tbh. Like the way Shack drives the ball forward. Similar to the way Ayling plays.
β Diddlysquat (@markrikko) October 30, 2018
Young shackleton or a recalled lewie coyle. Not been a huge fan of dallas this season. Give youth a chance
β Weallloveleeds (@allloveleeds75) October 29, 2018
Time for Shackleton? Heβs played well at rb, Iβd say either him or Dallas and put Pearce at lb
β Alex Johnson (@AlexJohnson1743) October 29, 2018
Would prefer Shackleton over Dallas and Beradi
β Keep the Faith (@Buybeckford) October 29, 2018
A real shame weβve lost Ayling again. With Berardi struggling for fitness & Dallas struggling for form, itβs a pity we donβt have one of Coyle or Hosannah available. Gotts also looks like right player but it might be too soon for him. Shackleton? #lufc
— ππ πππͺ (@tommy_lufc) October 29, 2018
Real shame but could be worse. With Berardi out too it is a big chance for Dallas/Shackleton/Gotts. Gotts has really impressed me in u23s recently. Wouldn't be shocked if he is in Bielsa's thoughts. #lufc #MOT https://t.co/F9wYwPpDPu
— Mighty Whites Pod – #LUFC podcast. (@mightywhitespod) October 29, 2018