Manchester United manager addresses about defender and its worrisome

The Manchester United team's chances of having Luke Shaw return to action following the October international break have taken a hit
Manchester

(Football news) The 29-year-old has endured an injury-riddled calendar year, robbing him of the opportunity to feature prominently for the Red Devils and England.

Shaw last played in a Manchester United match back on February 18, when Erik ten Hag’s troops recorded a 2-1 win at Luton Town courtesy of a Rasmus Hojlund brace.

Since then, the left-back has battled with numerous fitness issues, limiting him to just the single start at Euro 2024 this summer for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions.

That maiden starting berth of the competition arrived in the final against Spain in Berlin, where England narrowly lost out on a first-ever European Championship triumph.

“I cannot say this for 100% sure” – Ten Hag provides worrying Shaw update

Returning from international duty, Shaw managed just a single week of pre-season training before breaking down with a calf injury, plaguing his start to the 2024-25 schedule.

It was originally planned for the ex-Southampton youngster to be back in action during September, however the defender is yet to get anywhere near a matchday squad for Manchester United.

Ahead of Manchester United Europa League clash with FC Twente on Wednesday night, Ten Hag provided a concerning update when asked whether Shaw would be back in action next month.

“I think it is probably, but I cannot say it is 100% sure,” Ten Hag responded, when questioned about Shaw returning to the field of play in October.

“The plan is just be back before but, as I say I cannot say this for 100% for sure it can be short after the (international) break.”

What are Manchester United’s options without Shaw?

With Shaw’s return to the pitch not imminent, Manchester United will battle on for the foreseeable future with natural right-back Diogo Dalot on the left side of their backline.

The Portugal international has not looked particularly comfortable in recent matches, struggling to contain Southampton’s Tyler Dibling in a Premier League clash at St Mary’s on September 14.

Partly due to Shaw’s woeful fitness record, it is understood that Manchester United are looking to bolster their left-back ranks during the January transfer window.

The Red Devils are reportedly admirers of Fulham and USA defender Antonee Robinson, who is also attracting the interest of Arne Slot’s Liverpool.

Also read: Manchester United and other teams face a blow in signing youngster

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