Erik ten Hag finds himself facing another setback on the fitness front as news surfaces that Luke Shaw will be sidelined, only days after Mason Mount’s injury revelation.
Luke Shaw will miss the match against Nottm Forest
Manchester United’s injury concerns deepen with left-back Luke Shaw facing an extended absence due to a muscle problem. The severity of the injury is still being evaluated by the club’s medical team, with early indications suggesting Shaw might be out for weeks rather than months. This news presents a challenge for manager Erik ten Hag, who now must explore alternative options.
Ten Hag has to face injury crisis at Man Utd
The injury crisis worsens at Man Utd, with Luke Shaw joining summer signing on the treatment table. The left-back’s injury requires an extended recovery period due to a muscle issue. The club’s medical staff is currently assessing the injury’s extent, with hopes that Shaw’s absence will be limited to weeks, not months. This development surely isn’t welcome news for Erik ten Hag, who now needs to navigate matches without key players.
Shaw will be absent for a few weeks
Deputy left-back Tyrell Malacia is also nursing an injury from last season and might not be fit to replace Shaw during his absence. Consequently, Ten Hag might need to devise a makeshift defense for crucial fixtures, including an away game against Arsenal on September 3rd.
Shaw isn’t the only significant player on the treatment table; Mason Mount, the £55 million summer signing, is also sidelined. Initial assessments indicated a three-week recovery period, scheduled to conclude after the international break. However, there’s growing concern that Mount might miss as many as six weeks, impacting crucial matches, including United’s opening Champions League group games.
Man Utd is struggling with their defenders
This situation has heightened United’s pursuit of another midfielder. Mount’s injury could increase Ten Hag’s urgency to reinforce the midfield options. Furthermore, Mount’s absence might influence Scott McTominay’s future. Despite earlier expectations of his departure to clubs like West Ham and Everton, McTominay could now stay at Old Trafford due to the circumstances.
Some new contracts could be a reasonable solution
United’s start to the new league campaign has been underwhelming, narrowly winning against Wolves and suffering a 2-0 defeat to Tottenham. The midfield has been a clear weak point in both matches, even with Mount’s involvement. The absence of the England international exacerbates this issue.
With a week left to make any last-minute signings, United aims to remain competitive with the leading teams in the league.