Lee Sharpe has hailed Luke Shaw as one of the “best left-backs in the world,” despite expressing concerns about the Manchester United star’s injury struggles. Shaw has been a key player for United under Erik ten Hag, yet his career has been marred by injuries.
The 29-year-old missed the latter part of the 2023-24 season but still earned a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad. Although he missed the early matches in Germany, Shaw played a crucial role in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final.
Unfortunately, Shaw faced another setback during pre-season, suffering a calf injury that has sidelined him for the first four Premier League matches this season. In his absence, Ten Hag has deployed Diogo Dalot as a makeshift left-back, while Tyrell Malacia remains unavailable.
Sharpe highlighted Shaw’s potential impact on the pitch, noting, “He’s one of the best left-backs in the world when he’s fit, but he can’t seem to stay fit. I think that might be a long-term problem for him.”
In a recent press conference, Ten Hag provided an update on Shaw’s recovery, stating, “He’s progressing but not ready yet to be selected. We have a plan, but the timeline depends on his progress, which can vary.”
As United prepares for their upcoming matches, fans remain hopeful for Shaw’s return, recognizing the crucial role he plays when fit.Luke Shaw’s importance to Manchester United remains undeniable, with former United winger Lee Sharpe recently praising him as one of the “best left-backs in the world” when fully fit. However, Shaw’s career has often been hampered by recurring injuries, raising concerns about his long-term fitness.
Shaw’s absence towards the end of the 2023-24 season didn’t prevent him from securing a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad, where he contributed significantly in the latter stages of the tournament. Unfortunately, his injury woes continued into the pre-season, with a calf issue sidelining him for United’s first four Premier League matches.
Erik ten Hag has adapted to Shaw’s absence by using Diogo Dalot in an unfamiliar left-back role, as Tyrell Malacia is also unavailable. Despite the setback, Ten Hag remains optimistic about Shaw’s recovery, although no clear timeline has been given. Fans eagerly await Shaw’s return, knowing the difference he can make when fit and on form.
