Former Manchester United coach René Meulensteen believes the club have a major problem with Luke Shaw they will be forced to address next summer.
Shaw has not played for his club since February, missing the end of the 2023-24 season with a muscle injury.
The left-back was included in England’s Euro 2024 squad and started in the final against Spain but has not played since, missing United’s opening six games of the new season with a calf problem.
Shaw was initially expected to return to action following September’s international break but Erik ten Hag has been unable to offer a clear timeline on his return – suggesting it may now be delayed until after October’s international break.
United have coped without Shaw with Diogo Dalot deputising on the left and Noussair Mazraoui enjoying an excellent start to life at Old Trafford following his summer arrival from Bayern Munich.
But options in reserve are scarce with Tyrell Malacia another injury absentee, having not played since May last year.
While one of the best left-backs in the league when fit, Shaw’s absences has been a persistent problem having missed 264 games for club and country over the last decade.
Meulensteen, who served as one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s right-hand men during the club’s hugely success period between 2007 and 2013, fears the club will have a big decision to make on his future.
If Shaw cannot prove he has ‘sustainable performances’ in hm this season, the Dutchman believes a new long-term option will become a priority next summer.
‘That’s definitely an area for concern,’ Metro.co.uk courtesy of Free Bets.
‘Mazraoui and Dalot have shown they can be options there but they are not natural left-backs. Luke, when he’s fit and playing well, is great but it is a massive concern.
‘Whether it’s an ongoing medical issue or if the rehabilitation has not been right, I’m not sure, we don’t have that information. But they need to look at this situation as a club and ask, how long is this going to take and what are the chances that he has sustainable performances in him?
‘If that’s not the case, then it is a problem. Malacia, I have no idea what happens there with him. Those positions are so important. Modern left-backs and right-backs have to defend and do your job in the build-up and in the final third. It’s a versatile position.
‘I wouldn’t’ say you have to get someone else in now because maybe he will be ready soon. But if you know that information and he’s still out for half a season you would be looking at someone else in the long-term.’
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