Even though Connor Roberts has only made two starts since joining on loan from Burnley, he has significantly contributed to our campaign for automatic promotion this year, and he may decide to stay at Leeds.
The 28-year-old has only started matches against Chelsea and Stoke; in the other seven games in which he has been available, he has substituted in. This includes his goal in the thrilling 3-1 victory over Leicester.
In addition, he assisted Patrick Bamford against Huddersfield. Roberts expressed over the weekend his desire to play more, but he understands the circumstances and is willing to cover for Archie Gray on the right.
Wales star Roberts is reportedly being permanently pursued by Leeds at season’s conclusion, despite his lack of starts and Gray’s form. The right-back should remain at Elland Road.
According to recent reports, Jamie Shackleton may be leaving Leeds for free.
It’s probably a wise decision. Roberts has done it in the Premier League and is as experienced as they come when it comes to The Championship. Burnley is unlikely to demand a large sum, particularly if they lose.
Roberts is therefore a goal for Leeds come summertime, and it’s probable he stays. However, this is bad news for Jamie Shackleton’s aspirations to sign a contract and remain at Elland Road. June is when his contract expires.
Farke dropped hints earlier this season about a possible new contract for Shackleton at the end of the season, despite the player’s many injuries and inability to start many games.
However, it seems senseless to give Shackleton a contract if Leeds intends to bind Roberts to a long-term relocation from Burnley. That is in spite of his stellar 2023–24 campaign thus far under the German leader.
Jamie Shackleton’s bright start at Leeds has faded.
Eight of Shackleton’s nine Championship appearances this season were prior to the end of October. Since Roberts arrived, he has slipped even deeper down the social hierarchy.
The Leeds Academy product is capable of playing in midfield and on the left side of defense. Earlier this season, in a 1-0 loss to Birmingham, he even played right wing. However, he is primarily used on the defense’s right side.
Therefore, despite Farke’s hint regarding a new contract, if Leeds signs Roberts as the new story says, Shackleton will undoubtedly be leaving on a free transfer at the conclusion of the season.
