According to Press Association Sport, via talkSPORT, Manchester United legend Denis Irwin believes Luke Shaw can still make the left-back spot his own, as long as he proves that he deserves it.
The 22-year-old defender came under public criticism from Jose Mourinho last season over his focus and performances on the pitch last season, but according to The Guardian the Portuguese manager is now ready to hand the defender another chance to shine have been impressed with his attitude.
The former Southampton man made just 19 appearances in all competitions last term in Mourinho’s debut campaign in charge of United, providing two assists.
The England international has endured a torrid time with injuries over the course of the past two seasons and after suffering a horrific double leg break in September 2015, he has struggled to replicate his showings prior to the injury.
His progress was further halted as he missed the final month of the previous campaign because of ligament damage in his foot, which is likely to keep him on the sidelines during the majority of pre-season and perhaps even the start of the new season, according to The Guardian.
However, former Red Devils left-back Irwin believes that Shaw still has plenty to offer and can nail down a regular spot in Mourinho’s team.
The 51-year-old told Press Association Sport, via talkSPORT: “Obviously missing pre-season [is not ideal] – as a player, I know how important pre-season is – but we’ve seen what potential he had when he played for Manchester United and coming from Southampton as well.
“I am sure, hopefully, he will come back stronger and be able to compete for that left-back spot.
“I mean, listen, he is only a young lad. He was 22 on Wednesday.
“He is still learning the game – he’ll always learn the game, but particularly when you’re young. Hopefully he’ll get better and better.”
United begin their pre-season preparations with a match against LA Galaxy in the early hours of Sunday morning British time.
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