Luke Shaw is helping Manchester United get the best out of three teammates

While Marcus Rashford, Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez continue to be praised for their performances, Luke Shaw’s excellent form has crept somewhat under the radar.

Since the World Cup, he has played 90 minutes every game, except the cup games against Reading and the first leg against Nottingham Forest.

He has played both at centre-back and his orthodox left-back position and has excelled in both, rarely putting a foot wrong.

Read more: United have a new game-changer after Leeds win

Shaw at centre back

When Shaw started at centre back in December’s encounter with Nottingham Forest, some eyebrows were raised, but United lacked options, with Martinez recovering from the post-World Cup celebrations.

Shaw then started at centre back again against Wolves and Everton, with his performances earning the trust of Erik ten Hag to start him in the derby. He was outstanding up against the league’s best forward, Erling Haaland, as United earned a 2-1 win.

When Shaw starts at centre-back, Tyrell Malacia has come into the side at left back, with the young Dutchman enjoying a solid first season at Old Trafford. Shaw and Malacia’s passing is competent, but it is the ball-carrying and progression at which Shaw excels at.

Shaw at left back

When Shaw plays left back, he has more freedom to roam down the left wing, being one of the best ball carriers in Europe and United are a far better side with him down the left.

He is also a great athlete. Rashford’s goal against Leeds showcased his ability to use his body to hold off Crysencio Summerville before clipping a cross onto his head. Against Leeds in the week, United only grew into the game once Shaw did, with the link-up between Shaw and Jadon Sancho bringing United the equaliser,

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