Three ways Manchester United can line up in worst-case Luke Shaw injury scenario

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag moved to alleviate fears over Luke Shaw's substitution during the break in their 2-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday.

The 28-year-old managed 45 minutes at Villa Park after starting in the previous four following his return from a muscle issue. Already this season, the England international has sustained thigh and muscular injuries that have hampered his involvement in the first team.

Shaw made his return against Newport County in the FA Cup fourth-round win at the end of January after a spell on the sidelines that saw him miss the festive period. Ten Hag said: "(It) Was precaution, Luke Shaw, he gave some messages about complaints.

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"With Luke Shaw, we know his history with too many injuries and we couldn't go into that risk. A very important game but we can't miss him for six weeks."

The full-back will be assessed at United's Carrington training ground this week, however, Ten Hag provided an early suggestion that he could be available against Luton Town.

For many supporters, an immediate return to the training pitch would be a welcome sight due to the ongoing injury issues at Old Trafford. Lisandro Martinez became the latest high-profile casualty after he was ruled out for up to eight weeks with a knee injury, joining defenders Tyrell Malacia and Aaron Wan-Bissaka on the sidelines.

On Sunday, Victor Lindelof was Shaw's replacement in a like-for-like switch while Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire continued as the central defensive pairing with Diogo Dalot at right-back.

Should the extent of Shaw's