Millwall boss Gary Rowett has heaped praise on Leeds United loanee Jamie Shackleton for his 'outstanding performance' in the Lions' 3-2 victory over Championship high-flyers Sheffield United.
Shackleton was presented with his first league start since October and seized the opportunity by impressing Rowett at The Den. Tom Bradshaw's hat-trick ensured that Millwall pulled off a stunning victory and climbed back into the play-off positions.
The 23-year-old started 13 of Millwall's opening 18 league games, but has received less playing time of late after being named on the bench in 11 consecutive Championship matches.
However, Rowett restored him to the starting XI against the Blades, and believes Shackleton's performance justified his selection.
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“The biggest compliment I can pay Shacks, and it is no disrespect to Billy, is that we didn’t miss Billy. He’s been such a big player for us that I felt we would. It is a big blow, however Shacks was absolutely outstanding alongside Sav, who was really good as well,” he said, as reported by South London Press.
“He (Shackleton) only came off with a bit of cramp because he hasn’t played much. I said to him a month ago that you’re going to get game time and don’t be too disappointed.
"I couldn’t quite give it to him that point, for different reasons, but now he has got the opportunity and he looked a player who really wanted to take that opportunity.”
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