Jamie Shackleton has made an encouraging start to the season with Leeds United, although the midfielder has admitted that he would like to add more goals to his game.

The 19-year-old made his first league start of the campaign on Sunday, as the Whites returned to the top of the Championship table on goal difference with a 2-0 win over Barnsley at Oakwell.

Shackleton came through the academy at Leeds and was able to establish himself in the first team at Elland Road last season, making 24 appearances in all competitions.

The midfielder has made a positive start to the new campaign and was given the opportunity to start in midfield at the weekend due to an injury to Adam Forshaw.

Shackleton is determined to make an impact for Leeds this season, but has admitted that he would like to add more goals to his game.

“Just to play as much as possible really, when the chance comes to take it, and just to play as many games here at this club as possible,” Shackleton said when asked about his targets for the season, as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post.

“And more goals to my game, that’s another target as well!”

Leeds are currently top of the Championship table after winning five of their opening seven league matches and will be looking to continue their momentum with another three points against Derby County at Elland Road on Saturday lunchtime.

The Verdict

Shackleton is a very talented young player and he could have another important role to play for Leeds in the Championship this season. He really impressed me with his performances last season and showed maturity beyond his years.

His performances for Leeds so far this season have been very promising and I'm expecting him to get more opportunities in the first team as the campaign progresses.

It's good that he's still looking to improve his game though, as it shows ambition and adding goals to his game is a realistic target, as he's yet to score for Leeds so far.