Manchester United have confirmed a huge injury setback ahead of the Premier League curtain-raiser against Fulham on Friday evening.
The Red Devils had a mixed pre-season campaign and they recently lost the Community Shield to Manchester City in a penalty shoot-out.
The club will kickstart their new league season against the Cottagers at Old Trafford and ahead of the game, they have confirmed bad news.
Luke Shaw was deemed doubtful to face City last weekend and he was subsequently left out of the squad.
United have now disclosed that the left-back picked up a calf injury at the start of pre-season training and he is working hard on his rehabilitation.
The £27 million-rated star plans to make his comeback after the first international break.
Shaw on the sidelines ahead of the new season
The England star has entered his 11th season with the Red Devils, but he remains injury-prone.
The Southampton graduate made only 15 appearances last term amid multiple muscle injuries. He was still involved with England during the knockout phase of the 2024 European Championship.
Shaw recently reported for training with United. It was initially predicted that his absence could be related to match fitness, but the club have now confirmed another injury setback.
Diogo Dalot could be asked to provide cover in the left-back role until his return. Noussair Mazraoui, who is expected to join this week, could make his full debut at right-back versus Fulham.
The other option would be to play Lisandro Martinez at left-back with Dalot on the right. However, the former looked unconvincing there during the first half against City.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
