Jamie Shackleton pens emotional goodbye to Leeds United faithful as 'dream' ends

Jamie Shackleton has penned an emotional tribute to Leeds United's supporters and all the staff he worked with at the club after saying goodbye. The 24-year-old has joined Championship rivals Sheffield United on a three-year contract after rejecting an offer to sign a new deal to stay at Leeds.

It brings an end to a 17-year association with the club for Shackleton, who made his first team debut as an 18-year-old under former manager Marcelo Bielsa. Going on to play for the first team 94 times, with 39 starts., Shackleton leaves with great memories of his time at the club, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone he has come across in his time at Elland Road.

Posting on his Instagram account alongside a picture of himself as a young boy at Leeds, Shackleton wrote; "After 17 years my time at Leeds United has come to an end. My childhood dream came true playing for this great club and to do that in the Premier League was even more special. I’m grateful for every time I got chance to pull on the shirt.

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"I always wore it with pride and gave my all. From my first trip to Elland Road age 7, right through to taking my son out on the pitch last month, I have many memories that I’ll never forget. I’d like to say a huge thank you to every player, manager and member of staff I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years. You have improved me as a footballer and more importantly as a person.

"Finally I’d like to thank the Leeds fans for their unbelievable support towards myself and the team during my time here. It was my dream to play in front of you and loved every single opportunity I got to do that. I wish the club and everybody associated with it the best of luck for the future. MOT."