Manchester United's left-back woes continue with Luke Shaw ruled out
Manchester United's Luke Shaw has been ruled out of the opening set of matches in the Premier League after a calf injury sustained in training. England defender Shaw has been sidelined since February and his only appearance in the past six months was during the Euro 2024 final. Shaw's injury means Man United are without a specialist left-back with Tyrel Malacia's return date unknown. Man United suffered the same issue last season. Here's more.
Shaw's absence will impact upcoming matches
Shaw's injury means he will not be available for Premier League matches against Fulham, Brighton and Liverpool. His absence also extends to international duty as he is expected to miss England's matches against Republic of Ireland Greece in September. Shaw has had an unfortunate period with injuries and fans have also gone impatient with the senior player. Man United will hope to fill the void until both Shaw and Malacia return.
A problem position for Man United
As mentioned, the injury setback leaves Manchester United without two specialist left-backs at the start of the campaign. Malacia hasn't featured for the club since the start of the last season as his injury turned out to be more severe than thought. Like Shaw, he is not expected to return until October. Last season, Shaw was limited to just 15 appearances for United due to recurring injuries.
Ten Hag explores alternatives for left-back position
In response to the shortage of left-backs, United's manager Erik ten Hag has been exploring alternative options. In Saturday's FA Community Shield against Manchester City, he utilized center-back Lisandro Martinez and right-back Diogo Dalot in the left position. Ten Hag is also considering new signing Noussair Mazraoui for the position. Primarily, a right-back, Mazraoui can also be effective on the left. He may be handed a debut versus Fulham over the weekend with Dalot being the preferred right-back choice.
Man United have Harry Amass as an option as well
In addition to Mazraoui, United manager ten Hag can also put in young talent Harry Amass for the left-back position. Amass showed promise in the pre-season games. However, he was left out of the Community Shield. We could see Amass more this season if both Shaw and Malacia struggle to return. Meanwhile, United's injury woes have hit them hard at the start of the season. New signing Leny Yoro is ruled out for three months with Rasmus Hojlund absent too.
Shaw signed a 4-year contract in April 2023
In April 2023, Shaw signed a new four-year deal. He will be at the club until June 2027. Shaw had earlier joined the Red Devils in 2024 from Southpamton. He owns over 250 appearances for the club.
