Rio Ferdinand comments on Luke Shaw’s form since returning from the World Cup

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Luke Shaw has been “absolutely faultless” for Manchester United since the World Cup, says former Red Devils centre-back Rio Ferdinand.

United’s number 23 is rapidly becoming a vital part of Erik ten Hag‘s side with his consistently good performances.

The 27-year-old has started all five of United’s Premier League matches since the domestic season resumed last month.

Including the FA Cup third-round win against Everton, four of Shaw’s six starts since the World Cup have seen the former Southampton man start at centre-back.

Luke Shaw has been “absolutely faultless” since the World Cup, says Rio Ferdinand

Following Lisandro Martinez’s World Cup exploits, Ten Hag has opted to play Shaw at centre-back alongside Raphael Varane over natural centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof.

The 28-time England international has seamlessly slotted into the centre-back role and played a vital role in nullifying Erling Haaland during last weekend’s 2-1 win in the derby.

Ahead of United’s trip to The Emirates tomorrow to face league leaders Arsenal, Ferdinand has sung Shaw’s praises.

When picking a combined Arsenal and Manchester United XI on Vibe with Five, Ferdinand said: “Since he’s come back from the World Cup he’s been absolutely faultless, and he’s been playing centre-back – he’s been brilliant there too.”

Having reverted back to playing at left-back for United’s 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace, it’ll be interesting to see where Ten Hag deploys Shaw against the Gunners.

Although Martinez started his first Premier League game since winning the World Cup, against the Eagles, the former Ajax manager could well opt to put Shaw back in at centre-back alongside Varane with Tyrell Malacia coming in at left-back.

Shaw’s position in the team isn’t guaranteed, but his place in the starting XI seems nailed on given his growing importance.

He’s rapidly becoming a leader and after enduring a difficult start to the season, which saw him lose his place to Malacia, Shaw is now undoubtedly one of Manchester United’s key players.