This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Leeds are blessed with some mighty fine youngsters at Elland Road.
Marcelo Bielsa has already handed first-team debuts to Alfie McCalmont and Mateusz Bogusz this season while Leif Davis has also been afforded minutes in the Carabao Cup.
But one of his more trusted young performers is Jamie Shackleton.
He’s started the last three games for the Whites but the concerning thing is, despite a promising start, he now isn’t performing well at all.
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Shackleton broke through last term under the Argentine and has become somewhat of a utility man.
The teenager can play at right-back but also in central midfield. However, for the time being, he’s proving he isn’t up to the quality to start matches in the middle of the park for a side chasing promotion.
In his first appearance from the off versus Barnsley he was in fine form and had three shots. According to WhoScored he also completed three key passes.
Those are the only chances he’s created all season though as he’s proven he isn’t truly capable of influencing things at either end of the pitch.
With Tyler Roberts returning and Adam Forshaw coming off the bench last time out his place could very much be under threat.
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The concerning nature of the youngster’s game is that he also gives the ball away. He’s been dispossessed five times in three starts and has also managed four unsuccessful touches in that time.
A sense of perspective must be taken with Shackleton because he is still young but he shouldn’t be relied upon when times are tough.
At this moment in time, there is a bit of pressure on Leeds, who have now only won once in four matches.
It might be that a change in the midfield is needed and that could well happen against unbeaten West Brom on Tuesday evening.
Considering Shackleton hasn’t managed a single shot, key pass, dribble or tackle in his last two games he should be fearing over his starting spot.