Luke Shaw could be vitally important against his old club Southampton

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Luke Shaw is currently enjoying the best period of his Manchester United career.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gave him a rest against Sheffield United on Wednesday but his attacking thrust was sorely missed as United lost 2-1.

Alex Telles was brought in last summer to add that drive from left-back but his flat display was in stark contrast to Shaw’s impressive recent performances.

Shaw missed the 3-2 win against former club Southampton in November through injury but he is expected to start tonight and could be United’s most important player.

Southampton like to play a narrow 4-4-2. This allows them to press effectively in midfield but leaves space on the flanks for opposing full backs to scamper forward.

Their right flank might provide fertile ground for United’s left-sided players tonight because Ralph Hasenhuttl’s first choice right-back Kyle Walker-Peters is out injured.

The Saints just loaned potential backup Jan Valery to Birmingham and midfielder James Ward-Prowse had to fill in against Aston Villa on Saturday.

United’s left winger tonight is likely to be Paul Pogba, Anthony Martial or Marcus Rashford. All three are right-footers who will look to drag whoever Southampton play at right-back inside.

That should create space for Shaw to bomb into and whip in crosses, especially if United can create 2v1 situations down the left.

Shaw has drawn praise in recent weeks for his defensive work, most notably the way he shackled Mo Salah in the 0-0 draw at Anfield.

While he’ll still need to be on his guard tonight, it’s time for his attacking power to take centre stage.

That drive was so impressive when he played for Southampton in the early part of his career and he is finally, consistently making good on that potential.

Shaw can help United get back to winning ways tonight.

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