Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Luke Shaw Returns to Man Utd Squad for Manchester Derby
- Luke Shaw was observed with Manchester United’s travelling party for Sunday’s derby match against Manchester City.
- The left-back’s last appearance on the pitch was as a substitute against Everton in December.
In a significant boost for Manchester United, defender Luke Shaw has been sighted with the team’s squad ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated Manchester derby. This development suggests that Shaw is nearing his comeback from an extended period on the sidelines due to injury.
Injury Layoff and Return
Shaw has not been named in the starting lineup for United in over a year, facing a series of muscle-related injuries. He has made only three substitute appearances under the recently appointed manager, Ruben Amorim.
His most recent start for the Red Devils dates back to a match against Luton in February 2024. His last game involvement was as a substitute in the fixture against Everton in December.
Potential Role in the Derby
Despite his return to the squad, it remains improbable that Shaw will be included in the starting XI for the derby against Manchester City. Patrick Dorgu has filled the left-back position effectively in Shaw’s absence, delivering consistent performances.
Furthermore, given Shaw’s history of experiencing prolonged non-contact injuries, rushing him back into the starting eleven could be considered imprudent.
Manchester United acknowledged the return of their key defender on social media, posting on X (formerly Twitter): ‘Great to see you back with the group,’ accompanied by a photograph of Shaw.
Luke Shaw was pictured with the Man United team prior to Sunday’s Manchester derby
The England international’s last start for his club was in February 2024 against Luton
Fan Reaction to Shaw’s Return
While the news of Shaw’s return provides an injury lift, some Manchester United supporters on social media expressed skepticism, anticipating another short spell before he is potentially sidelined again.
One fan questioned on X, ‘Question is for how many days?’ in response to United’s announcement of Shaw’s return.
Another quipped, ‘He’s back for 30 minutes.’
A third comment read, ‘In one month he will be unavailable again.’
Update on Other Players: Mount and Mainoo
Separately, manager Amorim provided updates regarding the fitness status of other players, including Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo, ahead of Sunday’s fixture.
‘Yes, he can start, but we still need to manage his minutes,’ the Portuguese manager stated regarding Mount’s potential involvement at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Conversely, Mainoo is further from a return to the starting lineup, having been absent for the past two months due to a muscle injury.
Amorim added, ‘I think Kobbie is back in training, so we will assess him for this game. Naturally, he cannot complete a full match, as he has been out of training for an extended period.’