The emergence of Conor Shaughnessy has saved Leeds money in the transfer market.
Leeds United sporting director Victor Orta has explained the decision not to sign an additional centre-back in the transfer window.
Matthew Pennington joined on loan from Everton to replace Kyle Bartley but his injury on the opening day prompted concern they were still short.
Young talent Conor Shaughnessy has since stepped up, and Orta says that his emergence was a key factor in Leeds deciding not to add an extra defender.
Orta told Leeds United’s Facebook page: “We decided on Penninton because I think he has the quality for Championship level, the minutes he played against Bolton was an incredible.
“We have Pontus Jansson, Cooper, and we discovered with trust of Thomas Christiansen, Conor Shaughnessy.
“Ayling and Borthwick-Jackson can play there even in the situation so we think we are really covered.
“This is the reason we don’t sign. We feel good that we have four centre-backs in different style. We need to support Shaughnessy he’s a product of youth, Leeds’ academy, for us he can be perfect cover this season.”
Shaughnessy had a shaky start initially against Bolton as he conceded a penalty but he has since produced very accomplished displays and Leeds have not conceded a league goal in the past four matches.
It would have been very harsh on Shaughnessy if Leeds had signed an extra defender as he has made big strides over the past month.
As Orta points out, credit must go to Leeds manager Thomas Christiansen for identifying him early as a useful option and putting trust in the 21-year-old talent.
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