Manchester United's start to the season has highlighted who their most important player is

Manchester United’s dismal start has highlighted a plethora of problems for Erik ten Hag.

From form to tactics, recruitment to man management, takeovers to budgets, the Reds have issues almost across the board. On the pitch, United have been well below standards this term.

Injuries haven’t helped and the opening months have highlighted just how important one absentee is to the team. Luke Shaw hasn’t featured since the defeat at Tottenham in August and isn’t set to return until after this month’s international break. His absence has been keenly felt.

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The full-back was a vital cog in United’s system last season, impressing at left-back and filling in capably at centre half when required. His absence has been felt with the Reds lacking a consistent presence on the left of defence while being forced into handing Jonny Evans more minutes than was envisaged in the middle.

Shaw’s dynamism on the flank, his ability to get forward and his set-piece strengths were all key facets last term while his link-up with Marcus Rashford helped the latter to an incredible goalscoring season. He hasn’t been the same player this term and while that can’t solely be attributed to Shaw’s absence, it’s certainly been a factor.

The two combined well on plenty of occasions last season to help United finish third in the table and secure the Carabao Cup. Rashford hasn't had that consistency this term.

And while United are under-performing, those sidelined by injury often become better players simply by not being part of the current malaise. In Shaw's case, his absence