Peter Schmeichel launched a harsh critique of Manchester United’s Luke Shaw following another series of setbacks that will keep him out of action. The England left-back sustained an injury upon returning from the Euros, which will cause him to miss the first three Premier League matches of the upcoming season, including tonight’s opener at home against Fulham. Shaw, who made only 12 starts in the top flight last season and missed a significant portion of Euro 2024 with his national team, suffered a calf strain during the start of United’s preseason training. The Red Devils provided an update on the 29-year-old’s condition on Tuesday, expressing hope that the full-back would be available for selection after the first international break. However, Schmeichel was unimpressed by the fact that one of Erik Ten Hag’s key players will miss a string of important matches.
“He’s injured again. He’s vital. His role as a left-back is crucial, and he has the necessary experience. We pay him to play for Manchester United, and that should be his priority, not his country,” Schmeichel said. Without Shaw, Ten Hag’s side faces a tough match against rivals Liverpool. Adding to the defensive woes, Tyrell Malacia is also expected to be out for longer than initially anticipated, forcing Ten Hag to potentially begin the season with a makeshift defense. Lisandro Martinez played as a left-back alongside Harry Maguire at center-back and Jonny Evans in midfield during Saturday’s Community Shield penalty shootout loss to Manchester City. Meanwhile, new signing Leny Yoro, who underwent surgery three months ago, is also not yet available.
