Mark Lawrenson believes Manchester United need to move on from Luke Shaw being the primary left-back due to his lack of availability.
A fully fit Shaw is one of the best left-backs in Europe and he is a player we are reliant one.
The Reds have yet to be able to call on the services of Erik ten Hag’s preferred left-back this season, and former Liverpool defender Lawrenson believes it might be time to look for a replacement.
However, the writing was on the wall during the summer when Shaw received the call-up to represent England at Euro 2024, despite not playing for United since February 18 – which remains the case.
Shaw returned from the Euros and sustained a calf injury during pre-season.
Ten Hag confirmed that Shaw had suffered another setback meaning he won’t return until mid-October.
Lawrenson told Sports Casting, as per DAZN, that United can no longer rely on Shaw at left-back.
“I think United will be looking for a replacement for Luke Shaw, given he’s suffered yet another injury,” Lawrenson said.
“He made the Euros in the end but if you’ve got players like him who are very rarely fit, you can’t rely on them.
“It’s not a case of him not playing anymore, it’s more the fact that Ten Hag will be wanting to play the same team every week. If he can have that, and it’s a good team, then United will be up there at the top of the league.
“You’ve got to feel for Luke Shaw, though, he doesn’t mean to get injured that’s just the way the game is. They’ll likely assess the situation at the start of next year and see what they can and can’t do with him.”
Dalot filling in at left-back
In Shaw’s absence, Diogo Dalot has filled the void at left-back. It’s not his favourite position but his development as a footballer is clear to see on either flank.
Dalot isn’t Shaw and still needs to improve his game defensively in order to become a top full-back.
Meanwhile, Noussair Mazraoui has played at right-back.
Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.
