Luke Shaw might have a new role to play with Tyrell Malacia at Manchester United

The arrival of Tyrell Malacia at Old Trafford has, so far, been hugely successful. The Dutchman has featured in all seven of the Reds' matches so far this season, but it is in recent weeks that he has really impressed.

Malacia replaced Luke Shaw in the final few minutes of the opening-day defeat by Brighton in August. While his first taste of playing for United came in a defeat, it was simply the beginning. Against Brentford, when Erik ten Hag's side were thrashed 4-0, the Dutchman once again replaced Shaw, this time, though, it came at half-time.

Although the Reds were humbled by the Bees in London, the individual performance of Malacia caught the eye of supporters and pundits, and the defender has not looked back since.

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Since his 45-minute cameo against Brentford, the 23-year-old has played the full 90 minutes in United's last four Premier League matches - all of which the Reds have won. He also started in the Europa League defeat to Real Sociedad last week.

The improvement in defence for Ten Hag's men has been seriously impressive, with Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane and Malacia forming a formidable back line.

With Malacia performing at such a high level, Shaw has found himself among the substitutes in recent weeks - and has played just two matches so far this term. Despite his lack of game time, United are expected to trigger a one-year extension option in the left-back's contract before the January transfer window closes.

Shaw has, technically, entered the last year of his contract, but United plan to exercise their option of an additional year with the 27-year-old. The club have no intention of allowing the