Manchester United are hoping the latest injury to Luke Shaw is not a big one, as there is limited back-up available.
Luke Shaw had to be substituted at half-time against Aston Villa at the weekend, and Manchester United’s lack of options were highlighted by Victor Lindelof having to be brought on at left-back.
Tyrell Malacia is still out injured, and Diogo Dalot is needed at right-back with Aaron Wan-Bissaka currently unavailable too.
So when assessing the squad options, Manchester United really could do with Sergio Reguilon right now.
Sergio Reguilon deal was cancelled
Manchester United called time on Sergio Reguilon’s loan deal in early January, using the break clause in his contract to cancel the arrangement and send him back to Tottenham.
There was a theory at the time that Manchester United wanted to use this as an opportunity to sign another player on loan, but it did not turn out to be the case.
Reguilon played in 12 matches in all competitions for Manchester United, helping the team through a difficult period.
Fabrizio Romano spoke to The United Stand this week about the Reguilon deal, and said that the defender would have been happy to stay. He said the club decided to cancel it.
He explained: “Reguilon was very happy at Manchester United, so it was a club decision, yes.”
He added that United wanted a break clause in a deal, believing they would have enough cover in the second half of the season.
“They decided to go for Reguilon, the initial plan from Manchester United was still the same [as a possible move for Cucurella], we sign a player for six months and then its going to be Luke Shaw and Malacia.
“I think they wanted to respect that strategy they made in the summer.”
Sergio Reguilon shining at Brentford
Whether there were financial implications behind keeping Reguilon for another six months or not is unclear, but Manchester United felt that with no Champions League or Europa League football, the team could cope with a smaller squad.
Reguilon meanwhile signed for Brentford, where he has made three appearances. And in these games, he has already provided an assist, something he did not manage to do in 12 matches at Manchester United.
Erik ten Hag did say that Luke Shaw’s substitution was a precautionary one, and supporters will hope he is fit enough to start the club’s next match away at Luton.
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