Ten Hag gives update on potential return for left-back amid further setback

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 21: Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United, arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and Manchester United FC at Selhurst Park on September 21, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Peter Nicholls/Getty Images)

Luke Shaw’s return from a calf injury could now be delayed until after the October internationals.

The England left-back, who went to the Euros during the summer despite carrying an injury going into the tournament, has not featured for United since February 18.

His appearances at the Euros came as a further slap in the face as he missed the start of the season for United, and we’ve yet to see our primary left-back make a single appearances.

Shaw sustained a calf injury during his first week back for pre-season training and Ten Hag originally suggested he would be fit again after the September internationals, which have passed and there’s still no sign of our left-back…

Ten Hag has now revealed that is was now probable that Shaw would return until mid-October, which means Diogo Dalot has more time to stake a claim at left-back having filled into the role with new signing Mazraroui positioned at right-back.

“I think it’s probably [before the break] but I can’t say I’m 100 per cent sure,” Ten Hag told reporters, as quoted by ManUtd.com, ahead of United’s meeting first Europa League clash of the season.

“The plan is just to be back before but as I can say this 100 per cent for sure.

“It could also be shortly after the break.”

This means Ten Hag has the same squad available to face former club FC Twente in the Europa League which drew 0-0 at Crystal Palace on Saturday. That means United will be without Victor Lindelof, Leny Yoro and Tyrell Malacia as well as Shaw.

It doesn’t bode well for Shaw that they still can’t reveal a precise date for his eagerly awaited return. The worry then will become how long until his next injury.

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