The 19-year-old Academy graduate started the 07/08 campaign off by catching the eye of Sven-Goran Eriksson on the pre-season trip to Sweden, and followed this up by signing a new three-year contract with the Blues and making his first team debut in the Carling Cup win at Bristol City.
A second appearance in the same competition, at home to Norwich, was followed by loan spells with Grimsby, Scunthorpe and most recently Stockport. His initial stay at Edgeley Park ended early due to a groin injury, but now recovered he is heading back until May 26th as the Hatters hope to secure promotion from Division Two, most probably via the play-offs.
Reflecting on his year to mcfc.co.uk’s Leon Collins, Shaleum said:
“I think that this season’s gone really well for me. My first spell was at Grimsby, which went OK but not the best. I really enjoyed Scunthorpe after that, that set me on my way really and now I’ve been to Stockport for a month. They play good football there and I’ve enjoyed that the most out of all of them.
“I’ve played 15 games this season and I’ve been learning all the time, now I’m looking forward to getting a few more in before the end of the season.”
Shaleum has played both in defence and in midfield for all four sides this season, and he adds that he is happy to play anywhere and not just in his accustomed role of right back.
“I played more as a right winger for Grimsby and Stockport, it gave me the chance to get forward more than I normally do and I like that position. My natural position is right back but I’ll always take any chance to have a go on the right wing.
“I’ll play left back, right back, wherever I’m asked I’ll play there, I don’t mind.
“It’s been a decent season for me, it was great to be offered a new contract early on and I think getting all these games under my belt has helped me improve.”
