Aheed Abrar
Paul Merson’ shocked’ Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has been picked in the latest England squad
Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw being included in the latest England squad has left Paul Merson flabbergasted. The Arsenal icon does not understand why the 27-year-old has been called up to represent the Three Lions in the upcoming Nations League fixtures.
There has been a lot of criticism directed towards Gareth Southgate for his picks. The inclusion of Harry Maguire and Shaw has been met with disapproval by some.
Speaking on Sky Sports (h/t Metro), Merson, who spent 12 years on the Gunners’ books, can understand the United being called up. However, the 27-year-old left-back being named in the 28-man England squad has surprised him.
“I was shocked with the Luke Shaw one, if I’m being honest.
“The amount of full-backs we have in this country and talented full-backs at that. I was shocked with that. But not the Harry Maguire one.”
Shaw has not had the best of times in recent seasons. The left-back has found himself at the receiving end of some backlash. In the previous campaign, the former Southampton star made some high-profile errors.
Shaw has been inconsistent at United
Since making his way to Manchester from the Saints in 2014, Shaw has seen many ups and downs. The 27-year-old’s injury record has made it difficult for the left-back to play consistently.
Under Erik ten Hag, Shaw has not played many minutes either. He started the first two games. However, after disappointing results against Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford, the 27-year-old has not been afforded a lot of game time.
Tyrell Malacia seems to be the preferred option. And the Holland international has made it difficult for Shaw to get back in the starting XI with his performances.
While the left-back has not seen many minutes for the Red Devils, he is still someone who is evidently trusted by Southgate. Shaw played most of the minutes for the Three Lions during the run to the Euro 2020 final. And the 27-year-old put in impressive displays.
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The other left-back included in the England squad is Ben Chilwell. The Chelsea star is also someone who has not been the first name on the team sheet for the Stamford Bridge side this season. It remains to be seen how Shaw fares for the Three Lions in the upcoming games against Italy and Germany.
