Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag delighted over the return of Luke Shaw from his long-term injury
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag shared his delight over the return of Luke Shaw from the long-term injury. The England international last played against Tottenham Hotspur in United’s 2-0 loss at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 19th August.
Shaw has missed 16 out of 18 United games in all competitions this season due to the muscle injury. Ten Hag encountered an injury crisis in the left-back position as Tyrell Malacia has remained sidelined since pre-season.
Furthermore, Sergio Reguilon, signed on a loan deal during the deadline day, has suffered nagging injuries throughout this season. Ten Hag deployed midfielder Sofyan Amrabat and centre-back Victor Lindelof as make-shift left-backs in a desperate attempt to compensate.
Ten Hag told the reporters at his press conference (h/t Manchester Evening News) that Shaw’s return can bring much-needed stability. He said:
“You can mention many things – physical, technical ability, it’s clear. Long time this season we didn’t have a left full-back. Very happy he is back. He will help us be more stable.”
United signed Shaw as a teenager from Southampton for £30m during the summer of 2014. The 28-year-old became the most expensive transfer deal for a teenager in the world at that time. Chelsea challenged United for the signature of the Englishman but backed away due to Shaw’s expensive wage demands.
The 28-year-old had his fair share of ups and downs throughout his United career. However, Shaw played a key role during Ten Hag’s first season as United kept the most clean sheets last season.
The Englishman’s return to the senior team during the congested December fixture is a massive boost for the United boss. Whether Shaw will take time to regain his match fitness or if he starts soon is up for speculation.
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Ten Hag need to fortify the defence soon to stand a chance for a top-four finish in the Premier League. Furthermore, the Red Devils are facing a potential elimination from the Champions League before even reaching the knockout stage.
United have conceded 30 goals from 18 matches in all competitions, playing a big role in their current season’s struggle.
