Neil Redfearn has told The Athletic in a piece written by Phil Hay he is not surprised that Daniel Farke has taken a liking to Jamie Shackleton since arriving at Leeds United – given so many wanted to leave.
Shackleton, 23, has returned to Leeds this season after a season-long loan spell at Millwall. A year in which he was in and out of the London side – our opponents on Sunday, which sees Shackleton return.
He has been arguably, our best player this season – alongside the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Pascal Struijk and more. Shackleton is out of contract at the end of the season but he is playing better than ever.
That is despite Shackleton playing in a number of different positions. Right-back, left-back, midfield and even right-wing, against Birmingham City. Redfearn says it is no surprise Farke is a fan of Shackleton.
“But it didn’t surprise me that Farke liked him. Because look at what’s been going on: Farke’s looking around him at lads trying to force their way out, lads dropping out of games,” Redfearn told The Athletic.
“The things that make you question who’s got the right attitude. Then in the middle of that, you’ve got Shack, someone who won’t ever cause you a problem and who just wants to play,” Our old boss added.
Redfearn says he’s not surprised Farke likes maestro Shackleton
What a player Shackleton has been for us this season. Just when we needed it the most. Shackleton could have easily decided that he needed to leave the club in the summer – and had interest in him.
Struggling to play for Leeds and being forced to go on loan, Leeds fans would have been more than understanding if Shackleton had asked to go. But he has worked hard, and worked his way into the side.
Does he start when everyone is fit? Probably not. But he is the ideal kind of player to have on the bench – able to cover numerous positions. With Stuart Dallas still out, Shackleton is a crucial player for Leeds.
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