Erik ten Hag has been operating without a natural left-back at his disposal since February 18.
During the clash against Luton Town that day, the manager was forced to withdraw Luke Shaw at the interval for a second consecutive match due to injury concerns, and after full-time, it was confirmed that he’d be overseeing an extended spell on the sidelines.
Much to the Manchester United’s faithful dismay, Shaw didn’t feature at club level again in 2023/2024 but did return in time to play for England in the quarters, semis and Euro 2024 final over the summer – albeit two games were as a substitute.
Then, upon reporting back for pre-season training at Carrington, the ‘superb’ 29-year-old sustained a calf complaint and was subsequently ruled out of the opening of the 2024/2025 campaign.
Noussair Mazraoui, while a natural right-back, was sought to help take the burden off of Diogo Dalot in deputising for Shaw and Tyrell Malacia this term, with the club yet to share a concrete timeframe for when either of the pair could be available for selection.
Shaw risks falling out of Ten Hag’s plans, says ex-Red
Ex-Red Lee Sharpe believes this isn’t sustainable, though – no matter how world-class the England international can be when fully fit.
“Looking more long term, I’d also mention Luke Shaw [as a player at risk of losing their place]. He’s one of the best left-backs in the world when he’s fit, but he can’t seem to stay fit. I think that might be a long-term problem for him,” he told Express Sport.
