United could rue two transfer decisions after latest reports of key man’s season-ending injury layoff

Manchester United reportedly fear that Luke Shaw could miss the remainder of the season through injury, as per Mail Sport.

The defender has been withdrawn early – half-time or before – in his past two outings against Aston Villa and Luton Town respectively, being replaced by Victor Lindelof in each.

It is a reoccurring leg complaint that continues to trouble Shaw as of late, while at the beginning of the campaign, he was sidelined with a muscle injury that saw him miss 10 Premier League matches.

Tyrell Malacia is the only other senior left-back in the squad but he is yet to feature this season after picking up a knee issue on the final day of the 2022/23 term. His return timeframe is unknown, although the club did confirm that he suffered a setback in his rehabilitation back in December.

United left scrambling for left-back cover

During Shaw’s first spell on the sidelines, United were able to acquire Sergio Reguilon on loan from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer window, however, opted to cut his season-long deal short in January. 

20-year-old Alvaro Fernandez – also a left-back – could’ve provided cover for the position given the lack of depth, but he was sent to Benfica in the winter to gain vital senior experience.

As such, Aaron Wan-Bissaka being unavailable for the time being means Diogo Dalot will be forced to stay on the right flank, with Lindelof or Sofyan Amrabat expected to fill the England international’s absence.

United have significant work to do in the top-four race and take on a fifth-round FA Cup tie away to Nottingham Forest next Wednesday.