Luke Shaw will be out of action for a month after picking up a hamstring injury in Manchester United‘s 3-1 win over Everton on Saturday, November 7.
Luke Shaw Out for Four Weeks With Hamstring Injury
We’re all wishing you a speedy recovery, @LukeShaw23! 💪#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 10, 2020
Improvement in Form
Luke Shaw’s form had been improving for Manchester United this campaign. After a torrid start to the season for the whole backline, he put up a strong showing as part of a back three v Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. His delivery has taken an increased impact on United too, providing two assists in his last two games.
Shaw delivered a cross to perfection for Anthony Martial to get Manchester United back into the game against Istanbul Basaksehir last week, though they still lost. The English left-back matched his effort again v Everton, providing for Bruno Fernandes‘ equaliser.
Other Options With Luke Shaw Out
Whilst Shaw’s improvement in form will be a miss for United, they did sign Alex Telles in the summer, so it shouldn’t be too detrimental.
Telles has himself had a period out, due to coronavirus, and has only played once for the Red Devils so far. It was an impressive display in a more advanced role in Paris. It has been suggested that he may suit that role more than a traditional left-back. He may have his chance to prove those thoughts wrong in the coming weeks. Telles is currently away with the Brazil squad so Manchester United will be hoping he returns without any concerns.
Brandon Williams hasn’t featured much of late and is another option for the club.
Solskjaer Scheduling Criticism
Shaw’s injury comes after criticism of the scheduling of United’s games from manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Solskjaer was unhappy at having had to play on Saturday afternoon, despite only returning from Turkey on Thursday morning.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has backed Solskjaer’s comments up, stating that “no team” should face that scenario.
National Team Return Delayed Even Further
Frustratingly for Shaw, he has often found himself injured when appearing to be on the cusp of a good run of form. England manager Gareth Southgate left the door open for Shaw’s return to the international setup back in October.
Southgate told the media: “The door is certainly open. I don’t think we’ve ever closed the door on any player – & and we certainly wouldn’t on Luke. He’s more than capable of being the best left-back n the country in my opinion.”
This absence may delay any chance of a return to the national team for Shaw, particularly if Telles or Williams take up the mantle and impress.
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
