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Leeds need a spark and must try Jamie Shackleton in Hernandez role

Jamie Shackleton of Leeds United celebrates during the Sky Bet Championship match between Aston Villa and Leeds United at Villa Park on December 23...
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Leeds have a worry over Pablo Hernandez.

Leeds United's Pablo Hernandez during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Ipswich Town at Elland Road on October 24, 2018 in Leeds, England.

Pablo Hernandez faces a race to be fit for Leeds United’s fixture away to Preston, The Telegraph report.

Being without the talismanic Spaniard would certainly be a blow for the Whites considering his superb form. Replacing him will be tough.

Leeds have most frequently looked to Tyler Roberts in Hernandez’s role when they’ve been without him. This has yielded limited success. Kemar Roofe is likely to feature, but he could be better off playing up top, instead of Patrick Bamford.

Marcelo Bielsa should look to switch it up by playing youngster Jamie Shackleton in the position.

Not only would this catch Preston off guard, but it would play to Shackleton’s strengths, getting him involved in the game and a direct threat for the defence to deal with. It’s a role he has played for the under-23s.

Jamie Shackleton of Leeds United celebrates during the Sky Bet Championship match between Aston Villa and Leeds United at Villa Park on December 23, 2018 in Birmingham, England.

The youngster likes to take on defenders and his willingness to run with the ball can open up spaces for others. Striker Patrick Bamford could particularly benefit from this.

Leeds’ promotion challenge is at risk of faltering. The Whites need inspiration.

Marcelo Bielsa likes to give chances to young players and Shackleton’s appearances this season have shown he will not let the manager down.

Jamie Shackleton of Leeds United before the Sky Bet Championship match between Rotherham United and Leeds United at the New York Stadium, Rotherham, England, UK, on Saturday 26th January...