Connor Roberts has only started two games since arriving on loan from Burnley but has still managed to have a big impact on our push for automatic promotion this season – and he could stay at Leeds.
The 28-year-old has only started games against Chelsea and Stoke – but has come on as a sub in the other seven games he has been available for. That includes his goal against Leicester, in the mad 3-1 win.
Also, his assist against Huddersfield for Patrick Bamford. Roberts said over the weekend that he would like to play more – but is fully aware of the situation and is happy to play cover for Archie Gray on the right.
Reports say that despite his lack of starts and the form of Gray, Wales star Roberts is being targeted by Leeds on a permanent basis come the end of the season. We want to keep the right-back at Elland Road.
New reports could mean Jamie Shackleton leaves Leeds on a free
It is probably a smart move. Roberts is as experienced as it comes when it comes to The Championship and has done it in the Premier League. Burnley will hardly request a big fee, especially if they go down.
So, Roberts is a target for Leeds come the summer and it is likely he stays. But that is bad news for Jamie Shackleton and his hopes of staying put at Elland Road – and signing a contract. His deal ends in June.
Despite Shackleton’s numerous injuries this season, and his inability to start many games, Shackleton was the subject of a hint from Farke earlier this year – regarding a potential new deal come the end of 23-24.
But surely, if Leeds are going to tie down Roberts to a permanent move from Burnley – then there is point in handing Shackleton a contract. That is despite his impressive start to 2023-24 under the German boss.
Jamie Shackleton’s promising start has dissipated at Leeds
Shackleton has managed nine appearances in the Championship this season but eight of those came before the end of October. He has fallen down the pecking order, even further after Roberts arrived.
The Leeds academy product can play on the left of the defence and in midfield – and even played right wing in the 1-0 loss to Birmingham earlier this season. But, he is mostly used on the right of the defence.
So, if Leeds are signing Roberts as the new report suggests – then surely, Shackleton will be waving goodbye at the end of the season on a free transfer, despite the hint about a new deal from Farke.