New boy Shackell ready for pre-season

The 28-year-old defender, who has played more than 250 league games during spells with Norwich City, Wolves, Doncaster Rovers and Barnsley, will be introduced to the squad when they report back for pre-season training on Friday.

And he believes he’s signed up at Turf Moor at the perfect time, with a full pre-season schedule ahead.

“This is perfect, I’d much rather have it this way, obviously I’ll be meeting everybody for the first time tomorrow when everybody’s back in so I’m looking forward to that,” said Shackell.

“You get a full pre-season, you get to work on things and play plenty of pre-season games so that’s something I’m looking forward to.”

The experienced centre-back is also looking forward to being reacquainted with former team-mate Kieran Trippier as the pair played alongside each other for the Tykes.

“I know Kieran from Barnsley and obviously I know he had a fantastic year last year,” he said.

“He’s only young and he’s a very good full back so I’m looking forward to working with him again.

“I’ve never played with any of the other lads but I’m looking forward to meeting them.”