Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has recently hit a rich vein of form, playing some of the best football of his career. The former Southampton defender joined the Red Devils in 2014, and became the most expensive teenager in the world in doing so. His place in United’s defence had never been under great threat ever since he signed at the Theatre of Dreams until Brandon Williams burst onto the scene last year. Now with Alex Telles a prominent figure in the Manchester side’s squad as well, it is clear to see that Luke Shaw thrives on competition.
Competition Greatly Improving Luke Shaw Performances
Injury Trouble
While United have been content with Shaw as their left-back ever since he signed, he has never been world-class.
The Englishman looked to have an extremely bright future ahead of him when he joined the Red Devils. He was one of the most promising youngsters in world football, and continued to show why United had splashed the cash on him up until his side’s 2-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the 2015 Champions League group stage. After spotting an opening in the penalty area, Shaw dribbled into the space, but a firm tackle from one of the Dutch team’s defenders tragically broke his leg.
This injury was detrimental to Shaw’s development, and potentially stopped him from becoming one of the world’s best.
Recent Good Form Coming From Competition
Last season, Shaw’s injury troubles continued, sustaining a muscle issue in October 2019. This allowed young talent Brandon Williams to step onto the First-Team stage, and he took the opportunity with great aplomb, impressing everyone with his assured performances.
When Shaw returned from the sidelines, he had competition for his spot.
Shaw seemed to thrive on this, putting together an excellent run of form. His run of quality performances came at the same time as United’s fantastic run at the end of last season, inspired by the signing of Bruno Fernandes.
This campaign, the Red Devils took it a step further, signing top-class left-back Alex Telles from Porto.
This competition for starting left-back has once again had a positive effect on Shaw. It is clear that he has worked on improving his attacking output, along with developing a good relationship with Marcus Rashford down the left-hand side. The last year has revealed that Luke Shaw thrives on competition, and United fans will hope that he can continue his fantastic form into the new year.
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