Manchester United’s Luke Shaw has suffered a “major blow” and is expected to miss up to 12 weeks, according to Laurie Whitwell of The Athletic. The 28-year-old left-back has made 15 appearances in all competitions during the 2023-24 season and has struggled with injuries and fitness issues.
Manchester United’s Luke Shaw Injury ‘Major’ Injury Blow
England International Ruled Out for up to 3 Months
After originally being a doubt to be deemed match fit ahead of United’s trip to Kenilworth Road, The England international started against Rob Edward’s Luton Town, only to be forced off moments before half-time.
He had previously been substituted at half-time as a precaution, during his side’s victory at Villa Park on February 11th. Despite concerns over his readiness to play extensive minutes, he was chosen again to start.
Now he is understood to have suffered a muscular leg injury and will now be sidelined for up to 12 weeks.
Read More: Liverpool Face Battle From Man Utd For ‘Impressive’ Premier League Star
Erik ten Hag’s side secured three points with a 2-1 win but will be devastated to have lost Shaw in the process. This crushing setback is just the latest in a long line of injury problems that have plagued United all season.
The Red Devils had started to make significant progress and were up to sixth place, just five points behind Aston Villa in fourth. Now, there is uncertainty as to whether they can keep up with Unai Emery’s Villa or Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur.
Read More: He’s Special’: Why Manchester United Should Target Mega Deal For ‘Outstanding’ Everton Defender
Erik Ten Hag’s Manchester United Rocked by Lisandro Martinez & Luke Shaw Injury Woes
Manchester United struggled significantly in the early part of the season, with injuries to Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane and Luke Shaw disrupting Erik ten Hag’s side for weeks.
After an early exit from the Champions League and a slow start to the Premier League season, the Red Devils have slowly climbed their way up the table and are currently sixth and five points from Aston Villa in fourth place.
The former Ajax boss began to build momentum with the return of his key defenders, as well as the emergence of Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo and Rasmus Hojlund.
Following their 3-0 victory over West Ham United earlier this month, the club released a statement, revealing that Martinez had suffered damage to the medial collateral ligament in his knee. He is now expected to miss around eight weeks of football and will likely need significant rest to reach match fitness.
Now, Erik ten Hag must find a way to replace both of the starting defenders on the left side of the pitch, despite limited depth. Victor Lindelof is likely to deputise at left-back, while Harry Maguire or Jonny Evans will presumably partner Raphael Varane in central defence.
Luke Shaw’s Leadership Will Be Missed by Ten Hag
Aside from the pure talent Shaw has displayed since emerging from Southampton as a teenager, Erik ten Hag has previously highlighted Shaw’s non-technical traits to highlight his importance to the team.
After the full-back began to hit form in early 2023, the former Ajax boss told the media:
‘I don’t mean only as a team player, he’s a leader. He’s showed a lot of leadership capacities. He’s the example at this moment, and with his skills and his physical power he brings a lot to the team.
‘But now also with his mentality. He’s an example of how to win big games. I’m really happy with his development. I think it’s been huge either at centre-half or left full back. He’s a great player and a great personality for the dressing-room.’
United will now have to turn to ageing veterans to replace Shaw’s personality and quality on the pitch.
