What does Leeds United’s Conor Shaughnessy decision this weekend mean for player?

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Mansfield Town are through to the second round of the FA Cup after winning their game with Chorley at the weekend. But the Stags had to do so without one of their key players, who happens to be a Leeds United loanee.

Conor Shaugnessy was absent for the game and the reason why was declared on the League Two side’s official website. 

They stated the Republic of Ireland under-21 international was ‘not given permission’ by Leeds to play in the competition. 

The simple reason why Leeds would take this action would be the potential for him to become cup-tied. 

So does that mean Shaugnessy is still in Leeds United’s plans?

It would seem maybe is the best answer to that question. 

Marcelo Bielsa was believed to be a fan of Shaughnessy when he first arrived at Leeds and often name-checked him as a potential central defensive option. However, the Irishman suffered with injuries and soon dropped down the pecking order. A loan spell with Hearts followed and this summer he was again not in the first-team plans. 

However, Leeds are not blessed with depth at centre-back. With Ben White also only on loan Leeds could easily find themselves short at the back in January if injuries strike as well. 

Leeds are therefore probably just making sure they have Shaugnessy as an ace up the sleeve for their own FA Cup campaign, should they decide to recall him in 2020.