Luke Shaw was back on the training pitch with his Manchester United teammates on January 29, marking his return to group training for the first time since early December. The 29-year-old left-back's comeback offers the Red Devils significant hope as they prepare for their upcoming Europa League clash against FCSB (formerly FC Steaua București) on January 30.
United have struggled without Shaw, particularly on the left side of defense. While interim manager Ruben Amorim has tried to improvise, often deploying Diogo Dalot out of position as a wing-back, the team has lacked Shaw's experience and skill. According to reports, United have focused on bolstering their left-back options due to Shaw's injury struggles, which have plagued him throughout the past year.
Shaw's absence from the squad has been notable; prior to his return to training, he had only made three appearances this season, all of which were from the bench. United's manager had previously indicated caution about Shaw's condition, emphasizing the need to carefully manage his fitness as he works his way back to form. “He is going to be fit to train with the team,” Amorim stated. “Then we have to start with more minutes. We do not have a lot of time to train. We have to put some exercises in 10 minutes and then he has to make extra work to improve his fitness.”
Already, Shaw faced setbacks earlier this season when he returned to fitness only to suffer hamstring problems just before the pivotal match against Arsenal. His recent participation in the training session was welcomed, providing not just Shaw but the entire squad with confidence as they seek to secure their progress to the knockout stages of the Europa League.
The Red Devils currently sit comfortably with 15 points and remain unbeaten, alongside Lazio and Galatasaray, and with tomorrow's match viewed as pivotal for solidifying their standing. A victory against FCSB would secure United's position as one of the top eight teams, automatically advancing them to the last sixteen without having to face the first knockout stage.
Further complicatings matters is United's reportedly imminent signing of Lecce wing-back Patrick Dorgu. Reports suggest the deal could be valued at £30 million. Dorgu, known for his versatility, could fill the gap left by Shaw's injuries or potentially provide additional depth should Shaw regain his fitness. Amorim expressed enthusiasm about Shaw’s return, highlighting the defender's importance to his tactical approach, particularly within the 3-4-3 formation he is striving to implement.
Shaw's fitness challenges have been well-documented, raising concerns about whether he can adapt to the high demands of Amorim’s training methodology, which emphasizes stamina and agility. Despite these reservations, Amorim acknowledged the importance of Shaw within the team’s broader ambitions. "If he continues with this behaviour, doing everything he can, I will be here. All the staff will be here, as long as it takes. We believe a lot in him; he's so important for our team," Amorim stated.
While Shaw's future remains uncertain, and it is not yet clear if he will be included on the squad flight to Romania, the missed opportunities over the last twelve months are weighing on his mind. His return to training is seen as bolstering not just individual hope but team unity, as they all look forward to solidifying their standing as they enter the more challenging phases of the tournament.
Seniority and skill wise, when fit, Shaw is recognized as one of the top performers within the squad. Currently, United's managerial choice has focused on shaping Dalot and Tyrell Malacia. Dalot stepping up as temporary left wing-back has shown Amorim's reluctance to lean on Malacia, prompting discussions about potential new signings to fortify this position.
Shaw's grievance among the fans and his importance to the club's identity are undeniable. Whether or not he fits directly back on the pitch within the European matches remains to be seen, but every indication points to him being integrated more fully as the season progresses.
This is the latest chapter of Luke Shaw's complex narrative at Manchester United, marked by injury-induced setbacks and recovery. With eyes set on the upcoming fixture, anticipation surrounds the impact his renewed presence may have on the squad moving forward.