Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan believes that Whites defender Conor Shaughnessy is capable of having an impact at Elland Road next season, report Football Insider.

He was sent out on loan to Scottish Premier League side Hearts during the transfer window and Whelan believes Marcelo Bielsa's lack of defensive options could play into his hands.

“I think Bielsa has high hopes he can take advantage of his loan spell at Hearts, get some valuable experience under his belt and return a better player," he said.

"Shaughnessy has a chance at Leeds because we don’t have an abundance of centre-backs and he made a good impression when he was in the first team."

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The 22-year-old was in and around Bielsa's squad throughout the first half of the season but only managed one first-team appearance, in the League Cup defeat to Preston North End.

Since moving North of the boarder he has made six first-team appearances in the SPL, assisting one goal in the process.

The verdict

I think this is pretty hopeful from Whelan, even if Bielsa has shown a willingness to use his youngsters this season.

At 22, you would expect Shaughnessy to be in and around the first team by now and the fact he is not is very telling.

Leeds were well short of defenders this season, Whelan is right, but I would fully expect them to strengthen that department significantly once the summer transfer window opens.