Luke Shaw is set for an ‘extended period’ on the sidelines for Manchester United after sustaining a muscular injury.
Erik ten Hag’s side are continuing to assess the issue to discover the extent of Shaw’s problem, but the left-back looks set to be ruled out for a significant period.
The Athletic are reporting that Manchester United are hopeful the injury will see Shaw miss a matter of ‘weeks rather than months’, but it remains a big blow to the Red Devils in the opening weeks of the new Premier League campaign.
Shaw was a fixture in the side under Ten Hag last season and has started each of the opening two games of the new season, while his absence leaves United short of defensive depth with fellow left-back Tyrell Malacia also sidelined.
It remains to be seen whether Ten Hag re-enters the transfer market to find a replacement for Shaw, with United lacking a natural option at left-back given Malacia’s absence and the exits of Alex Telles and Brandon Williams this summer.
Lisandro Martinez could deputise, while right-sided full-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot are alternative options.
Shaw’s injury also adds to Gareth Southgate’s issues ahead of September’s international break, where England will face Ukraine in a Euro 2024 qualifier on September 9 and Scotland in a friendly fixture three days later.
John Stones and Tyrone Mings are already ruled out for the Three Lions, though Shaw’s injury could open up an opportunity for Chelsea defender Levi Colwill or Brentford’s Rico Henry, each of who have been pushing for a maiden call up in recent months.
