Luke Shaw Takes Planned Recovery Day Before Manchester United Face Sabah FK
Luke Shaw was absent from Manchester United’s main training group on Wednesday because of a planned recovery day, not a fresh injury concern, as preparations continued for Thursday night’s European meeting with Sabah FK.
The 31-year-old left-back did not train with the wider squad at Carrington, prompting concern ahead of the Azerbaijani side’s visit to Old Trafford. United’s medical team had instead scheduled time away from the grass as part of Shaw’s workload plan.
Matthijs de Ligt was also missing from the outdoor session while he continues his rehabilitation from a serious back injury. Academy defender Harry Amass joined the senior players in training, helping to bolster the group.
Shaw played throughout last season’s Premier League campaign, aided by a reduced programme when United had no European football. The return to continental competition after a two-year absence has increased the demand on the squad, with staff now managing key players more cautiously.
Left-back cover remains thin
United considered strengthening at left-back during the summer but did not complete a deal. Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall was closely watched, while Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde and Racing Santander player Jorge Salinas were also assessed before the transfer window shut.
That leaves United exposed if Shaw suffers an actual setback. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui, both naturally right-sided full-backs, would be the leading options to cover the position in his absence.
The squad already has injury issues elsewhere. Amad Diallo remains out with the ankle problem he suffered shortly before the campaign began, while new arrival Carlos Baleba is also recovering from an ankle injury sustained during pre-season with Brighton.
Sabah’s trip to Manchester gives Michael Carrick a chance to rotate before Sunday’s Manchester derby against Manchester City. Shaw could be held back or used carefully against the visitors, with his managed rest suggesting the weekend fixture is firmly in United’s thinking.
