Leeds have some big decisions to make this summer, particularly in regard to their young players, with Noel Whelan suggesting that Jamie Shackleton could move.
The youngster has impressed on occasion but his chances have been very limited – with six starts this term – as Marcelo Bielsa looks to guide us back to the Premier League.
If promoted, therefore, it is likely that he will get even less time on the pitch, and that could have negative consequences for his development – which is bad for both the player and the club.
Does Shackleton deserve more game time?
Yes
No
A temporary move away could be the solution. Whelan certainly believes so, and indicates that it is a very possible outcome if the player views that option as the best course of action to take for his long-term progression.
Speaking to Football Insider, he said:
“I think pre-season will probably dictate what happens for Jamie.
“What you’ve got to do is assess it at the end of this year, see where we are, see what players we’re going to be bringing in, see what the squad is looking like and also what Marcelo Bielsa wants and what Jamie wants.
“He might want to go and play 46 games in a Championship club rather than being a bit-part player in the Premier League.”
It is difficult to assess what Shackleton would benefit from most. Learning from Bielsa on a daily basis can be beneficial for any player, let alone someone who is only 20, and therefore he may be happy with just occasional first-team chances.
Added to that, Luke Ayling is our only natural right-back, and if he picks up an injury Shackleton could get a chance to prove himself, while his ability to play in midfield also serves him well.
Going out on loan doesn’t necessarily guarantee game time, particularly for Shackleton given how inexperienced he is, as that may lead manager’s to cast doubt over his readiness.
Bielsa is a big fan, which is encouraging, with the Argentine praising the youngster’s “explosive” nature as well as suggesting that he “plays like a veteran”, despite his limited career appearances.