Even though Saturday’s game against Chelsea ended in disappointment with a defeat, there were positives to be taken from the loss. The most apparent being the performance of Luke Shaw. It is fair to say that this was Shaw’s best display in a United shirt since moving from Southampton last summer.
At times, he looked like United’s biggest threat going forward, creating goal scoring opportunities whilst also producing a very solid defensive display. This will now give Louis van Gaal a conundrum as to whether to play Shaw or Daley Blind at left-back when both fit.
One week ago, the left-back position was a no brainer, as Blind had put in some great performances in big games in place of the injured Shaw. This switch had clicked wonderfully well, as it coincided with Michael Carrick back in the centre of midfield and Wayne Rooney as the loan striker.
It could be argued that Shaw’s injury, coupled in with Angel Di Maria’s suspension, turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as it had a domino effect on the teams’ structure resulting in great team performances and key victories.
There’s no doubt that Shaw’s first season at United has been a frustrating one, mainly down to the injuries he has picked up at different stages in the months that have passed. However, he still has a big future at the club as he only is 19-years-old, and on Saturday evening at Stamford Bridge, he showed signs of why the club spent £27million for his services.
For now, Shaw has a real chance to stake his claim to the left back role as there is no clarification of when Blind is due to return from injury, so expect to see Shaw start again on Sunday at Everton, though when both fit, Blind has to get the nod due to his consistency over the course of the season.
Next season is a big one for Shaw, of he can have a strong pre-season and stay healthy, then the question of ‘Shaw or Blind for left back in 2015/16?’, could give van Gaal a headache he won’t mind having.
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