The unexpected wrinkle in Manchester United’s winning run of late has been Luke Shaw‘s shift to centre-back.
Shaw was selected at the back alongside Raphael Varane in the Manchester derby, and played a key role in helping to keep Erling Haaland quiet.
The defender’s role was praised by Bruno Fernandes, who likened him to a new signing.
Shaw’s recent success in the position is not great news for Harry Maguire or Victor Lindelof – but other Manchester United players can profit from the shift.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loan deals for January 2023
The winner from Luke Shaw position switch
Shaw will not exclusively be playing at centre-back. He showed in United’s recent Premier League win against Bournemouth, that he is still a major force from left-back, scoring a goal in the 3-0 win.
But in the seasons to come, Shaw could transition into this central role even more frequently.
This is clearly good news for Tyrell Malacia, who is gaining more starting opportunities at left-back, with Luke Shaw in the centre.
It is also very good news for the prospects of talented Spanish teenager Alvaro Fernandez.
Fernandez won United’s reserve player of the year award and has been out on loan at Preston North End in the Championship this season.
He has made 23 appearances for Preston so far, making four assists, settling into life on his first loan spell.
Beyond this loan, it was unclear what the future might hold at Manchester United for Fernandez. In front of him at Old Trafford, are England international Luke Shaw, and new signing Tyrell Malacia. Neither player are going anywhere soon.
Except Shaw, who is now moving across into the centre-back mix, in addition to his role at centre-back.
The door will be open to Fernandez next season to step up and impress Erik ten Hag, and potentially feature at left-back.
This past pre-season he did not get a opportunity, as he remained in the UK instead of flying on tour, with United setting up his loan switch.
The former Real Madrid talent still has a way to go to prove he is first team calibre, but he has seen that Erik ten Hag will give young players chances, with Alejandro Garnacho and more recently Kobbie Mainoo featuring.
There could now be an opportunity for Fernandez later this year, and that is all he can ask for. The rest is up to him.
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