Man United star takes huge step towards injury return at the perfect time for Erik ten Hag

Erik ten Hag has been handed a very welcome Manchester United injury update in defence. The Reds have endured a mixed start to the 2024/25 Premier League season with seven points taken from a possible 15, though the focus is now on their Europa League campaign.

That European journey begins at Old Trafford with United set to welcome Dutch side FC Twente, the club where Ten Hag spent a large portion of his playing career. Ahead of the clash, Ten Hag was asked for the latest team news and he provided a new and worrying update on Luke Shaw

"No, no difference to the squad from last Saturday against Crystal Palace." Asked about Shaw, the United boss revealed he may not be available until mid-October, saying, "I think it’s probably, but I can't say it's 100 per cent sure. The plan is just be back before but, as I say I can’t say this for 100 per cent for sure it can be short after the break."

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Alongside Shaw, United have a number of other defensive absentees including Leny Yoro, Victor Lindelof and Tyrell Malacia. Yoro is still recovering from the ankle injury suffered in pre-season on his debut, while the latter duo have returned to different stages of training.

In United's open session at Carrington, Malacia was captured taking part in the warm up and some passing drills before continuing his own individual training programme.

The Netherlands international has not featured for United in 14 months having been out with a serious knee injury, but he looks to be on his way back. Given the length of his absence, United