In the build-up to Sunday's European Championship final in Berlin, Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had a message for Luke Shaw. "All the very best of luck on Sunday and I sincerely hope that you are successful," said Ratcliffe, appearing in a montage video created by BBC Sport. "Luke, please don't pull your hamstring again." Shaw had not started for England at the tournament prior to that video being created, appearing from the bench against Switzerland and the Netherlands.
They marked his first outings since being forced off at half-time during United's 2-1 win over Luton Town in February. READ MORE: Three United youngsters were positives vs Rosenborg READ MORE: Erik ten Hag was proved right in United friendly vs Rosenborg Therefore, it was something of a surprise when England manager Gareth Southgate made the decision to start Shaw from the off at the Olympiastadion, tasking him with stopping Spain youngster Lamine Yamal.
The 17-year-old had lit up the tournament and Shaw could not have asked for a bigger test. However, the United defender relied on all his years of experience to keep the winger at arm's length in the first half, marshalling him expertly.
He made it clear to Yamal within the first minute that he would not have it all his own way. With the contest goalless at half-time, Shaw would have returned to the dressing room more than satisfied with his showing in the opening 45 minutes.