Ten Hag confirms United star won’t return before October international break

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has provided an injury update ahead of the Europa League opener against FC Twente at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have had a mixed start to the Premier League campaign, picking up only seven points from their opening five games.

They were the dominant side in the recent trip to Crystal Palace, but were unable to break the deadlock. The clubs played out an exciting 0-0 draw.

Ten Hag will want a response on Wednesday night against FC Twente, and he has provided an update on Luke Shaw ahead of the game.

He told reporters: “I can’t say for certain [when Luke Shaw will be back]. The plan is to be back before [the October international break], but I can’t be sure. It could be shortly after the break.“

Shaw had an injury-plagued 2023/24 season. The England international made only 15 appearances across all competitions for the club.

The left-back managed to recover from a hamstring injury for the 2024 European Championship. He played a key part for the Three Lions during the back end of the tournament.

However, he suffered another setback on his return to pre-season training with United.

Diogo Dalot has done a good job providing cover at left-back, but he has been vulnerable with his positioning. He was poor against Liverpool.

Shaw’s return would be a huge boost in the back four, but Ten Hag is likely to handle him with extra caution, considering his knack for picking up injuries.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.