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Former Manchester United first-team coach Rene Meulensteen has raised concerns over the left-back position at the club. The Dutchman has urged the Red Devils to properly assess Luke Shaw's fitness and have a timeline for his return.
The England international has not featured for Manchester United since February, missing the second half of the 2023-24 campaign due to a hamstring injury.
Shaw was called up for the 2024 European Championships and started the final against Spain. While United fans surely anticipated his return to action this term, the 29-year-old suffered a calf injury during pre-season.
As a result, he has missed his side's first seven games and his return date remains unknown. Meulensteen has emphasized the importance of the full-back position, insisting that Manchester United must solve their problems at left-back given Shaw's unavailability.
He said (via TEAMtalk):
“That’s definitely an area for concern. 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."
Shaw has represented Manchester United 275 times, contributing four goals and 28 assists.
Erik ten Hag provides fitness update on Manchester United star Luke Shaw
Erik ten Hag has provided a worrying update on Luke Shaw's fitness. The Dutch boss admitted that he's unsure whether his left-back will return to action in October.
Shaw was initially expected to make his recovery and return to the pitch after the international break earlier this month, as Ten Hag suggested. However, the English defender has not played for the Red Devils.
United are set to face Twente in the UEFA Europa League on Wednesday night (25 September). During his pre-match press conference, Ten Hag was asked whether Shaw would be back next month.
The former Ajax boss revealed that he could be on the sidelines until shortly after October's international break as well. He said (via Manchester Evening News):
"I think it’s probably, but I can't say it's 100 per cent sure. The plan is just be back before but, as I say I can’t say this for 100 per cent for sure it can be short after the break."
