One of Manchester United’s many selection dilemmas this weekend is at left-back.
Luke Shaw missed England’s fixtures with the after-effects of a concussion sustained against Manchester City.
While his absence for the second international game was largely just a precaution, it throws a question mark over his availability for this coming weekend.
If Shaw is not at 100 per cent, then Alex Telles would be in line to start his first Premier League game of the season.
Telles’ performance for United in the last meeting with Watford should give his manager confidence to start him this weekend.
Telles masterclass
Telles started at left-back in United’s 1-0 win over Watford in the FA Cup back in January of this year.
Scott McTominay scored the goal, heading in a corner from one of Telles’ deliveries.
This game was one of Telles’ best performances for United. He managed 114 touches, more than any player on the pitch, per WhoScored.
Telles also created a staggering six chances, showing his qualities getting forward. Cristiano Ronaldo could benefit from his deliveries this time around.
Defensively Telles was sound too, winning three aerial battles, two tackles, and two interceptions, dealing comfortably with the attacking threat posed by winger Ismaila Sarr.
This weekend could be tougher of course, with Watford at home with the fans behind them. They have also since switched manager and added Josh King to their forward line.
But Telles’ performance should give Solskjaer confidence to put him into the team this weekend at Shaw’s expense.
Even setting aside Shaw’s injury, there is a case to be made that the Red Devils regular deserves to be dropped amid a run of poor form.
Donny van de Beek played too
Another player who proved he can cut it against the Hornets was Donny van de Beek, who began the game in midfield.
Van de Beek ranked second in terms of touches, registering 89, while completing 94.6 per cent of his passes.
He featured alongside Scott McTominay, with Juan Mata also part of the midfield.
Like Telles, Van de Beek’s showing last time against the Hornets should count in his favour in his quest to earn a starting spot this weekend.
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