Manchester United’s four-game winning streak came to an end earlier this week when Real Sociedad won the opening Europa League game at Old Trafford.
It was a sombre affair for large parts of the game but a contentious penalty decision went La Real’s way and United failed with a late attempt to equalise.
Erik ten Hag raised some eyebrows when he decided to keep both of his first-choice full-backs in the side with a busy schedule ahead, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka yet to start a game and Luke Shaw dropped for the last four league games.
Shaw was expected to replace Tyrell Malacia on the flank but he was absent from the squad against both Leicester and Real Sociedad. His no-show has now been explained.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Shaw is struggling with a foot injury and that issue has kept him out of two of the last three match-day squads.
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As per the report, Shaw was supposed to start the game against Real Sociedad but after the 27-year-old missed United’s final training session the day before, those plans were shelved.
Furthermore, it’s claimed that Shaw’s injury is only a ‘small complaint’ but there is little clarity over whether he will feature for the Reds before next week’s international break.
SN’s verdict…
Ten Hag is expected to make changes for next week’s trip to Moldova as they face Sheriff in the Europa League. A mouthwatering clash against Leicester awaits them just three days later in the Premier League.
Should Shaw recover from his injury in time, he will most likely start the European game as United aim to get their run in the group back on track.
Gareth Southgate will name his England squad next week ahead of the final rehearsal before the World Cup and Shaw will be keeping a keen eye on developments.
The former Southampton man has been first-choice since last summer’s European Championship but his standings at Old Trafford could affect his place in the England ranks.
