Erik ten Hag explains why Luke Shaw starts at centre-back for Manchester United vs Barcelona

Erik ten Hag has started Luke Shaw at centre-back against Barcelona in the Europa League for tactical reasons.

The Dutchman has also started Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who lost his starting place last season but has enjoyed an impressive renaissance over recent months, instead of Diogo Dalot, which was another pre-match talking point.

United take on Barcelona at Camp Nou in the first leg of the Europa League playoff on Thursday night. United defeated Leeds 2-0 in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon and Ten Hag is hoping to record back-to-back wins against Barcelona.

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Shaw started at centre-back at Elland Road at the weekend and he's retained that role to face Barcelona, which was expected, while Raphael Varane has also returned to the line up after being given the opportunity to rest.

Ten Hag was asked about that decision ahead of kick-off at Camp Nou and he opened up on his team selection.

"Yeah, he [Shaw] is [impressive], but especially I think for this game, like against City, so in certain roles, he fits very good at centre back because it allows the full-back to get high and he can defend very good in the left wide area," he told MUTV.

"That's the plan for tonight. That as well [left-footed player], you get better angles in your possession game and we want to dictate in and out of possession. In possession, you have better build-up.

"The experience that he [Casemiro] brings to this squad with Rapha [Varane] is huge. Everyone can learn from it, but I also think you feel more secure when they're in your side. He [Sancho] can play between the lines and he's capable to give a good ball.

"We want to win, go front foot, we have to be brave but not