Manchester United need one of their injured stars back more than any other

There are so many reasons behind Manchester United's poor form so far this season that it's hard to pinpoint one.

Identity, inconsistencies and injuries are certainly to the fore, while off-field issues continue to hamper on-field aims. The weekend win over Brentford did little to suggest a tide has turned even if the hope is the Scott McTominay-inspired late show will prove a catalyst for post-international break improvements.

Erik ten Hag's side remain mid-table in the Premier League, bottom of their Champions League group and with significant work to do to chase down a place in the top four and extend their European season beyond Christmas. The manager has repeatedly offered a 'no excuses' line in his media briefings this season but there is certainly mitigation for the Dutchman.

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Significant injuries have most certainly hampered the cause, with a host of players having missed matches this term and several still sidelined. The currenet absteenes include Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane while Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount are among those now fit but previously unavailable.

Yet perhaps the biggest absentee has been Luke Shaw. The England international has played just twice this term having become an influential Old Trafford figure in recent seasons. He was the subject of Jose Mourinho's ire on more than one occasion with the ex-United manager claiming he had to coach him through games from the touchline.

Since those testing times, Shaw has gone from strength to strength and was a key player for Ten Hag last season. He signed a new contract and was labelled the best