OPINIONErik ten Hag must start favourite Manchester United players for the first time in four months. Three months after a stunning FA Cup victory, Man Utd return to Wembley to face Man City in the Community Shield.
Three months after their impressive FA Cup win, Manchester United are set to return to Wembley to take on Manchester City in the Community Shield.
It will be a welcome sight to see Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez together on the field again this Saturday. The duo last played alongside each other in a match against West Ham at Old Trafford on February 4. Unfortunately, that game was overshadowed by Martinez sustaining a medial collateral ligament injury in his knee, which sidelined him until the final home game of the league season.
Adding to the woes, Shaw was ruled out for the rest of the season just two weeks after the West Ham game, following an injury against Luton Town. Their prolonged absences significantly contributed to the team’s disappointing performance last season.
Both players are key left-footed defenders who play a crucial role in the team’s build-up play. Manager Erik ten Hag has expressed how much the team missed Martinez’s composure, calmness, and winning mentality during his absence. Ten Hag also emphasized that having both Martinez and Shaw available is essential for the team’s success.
Despite the challenges, Ten Hag remains hopeful that Shaw will be fit for the upcoming match. If he had to choose two players to avoid extended injuries, Martinez and Shaw would likely be his top picks. Martinez made a significant impact in his first season with United, both on and off the pitch, while Shaw, when fit, is considered one of Europe’s top left-backs. However, he struggled with injuries throughout the 2023/24 season.
As the new season begins, it is crucial for both Martinez and Shaw to stay healthy. Their fitness will be key to United’s performance. Shaw recently addressed his injury issues, revealing that he pushed too hard to return for the final, which led to a setback. He expressed his frustration over the situation but remains determined to contribute to United’s success.
The club’s fortunes this season could hinge on the fitness of its key players, and if Martinez and Shaw make the starting lineup against City in the Community Shield, it will undoubtedly lift the spirits of United supporters.
