Man Utd's options to cope with Luke Shaw's injury absence

Left-back has been a troublesome position for Manchester United all season, and their issue has only worsened with the news of Luke Shaw's latest injury.

Shaw, who missed nearly three months earlier this season through injury, has limped off twice in the last two weeks and the latest blow has officially sent him back to the sidelines for what reports suggest could be a serious length of time.

Here's how United can move forward from this setback.

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What's the latest on Luke Shaw's injury?

United have confirmed that Shaw will miss "an extended period" after picking up this muscle injury but declined to put a date on his possible return.

Reports have claimed Shaw will be lucky to return to action before the end of the season, although others believe a comeback for the final few weeks of the campaign is a feasible ending to this saga. Either way, it's bad news.

Man Utd's lack of left-back depth

When Shaw went down earlier this season, it sent United into panic mode as their only other natural left-back, Tyrell Malacia, was also out through injury. The Dutchman suffered a knee problem in pre-season and has not been seen since, with several set-backs extending his spell away from the team.

With alarm bells ringing, United pulled the trigger on a loan deal for Tottenham's Sergio Reguilon, whose deal was terminated in January as the Red Devils, for reasons unknown, felt they were covered on the left now that Shaw was back.

Indeed, there was so much confidence that United also parted with their leading academy left-back as well. 20-year-old Alvaro Fernandez was loaned to Benfica, with both an option and a conditional obligation to make the move permanent inserted into his contract.

In hindsight, perhaps not the best move.

Erik ten Hag's options to replace Shaw

Victor Lindelof

It was centre-back Victor Lindelof who came off the bench to replace Shaw against both Luton Town and Aston Villa, and the Swede is perhaps the leading candidate to start out wide for the foreseeable future.

Erik ten Hag has used Lindelof at left-back five times this season, three of which came during Shaw's first injury. As a natural defender, he obviously provides a little more security, but he lacks any real attacking impetus, which could be problematic in certain games.

Diogo Dalot

Diogo Dalot is probably the best call here. He's a natural right-back but has plenty of experience out on the left, where he understands how to combine attack and defence.

The problem here, however, is that Dalot is currently needed in his natural position as starting right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka is out injured. He's not expected back until March so Dalot may have to stay on the right for a little while longer.

Sofyan Amrabat

When midfielder Sofyan Amrabat arrived on loan last summer, his ability to play at left-back was touted as a contributing factor to the decision to sign him. The Morocco international made his first four appearance for the club at left-back but, after a handful of underwhelming showings, saw that plan abandoned quickly.

The bubble quickly burst as Amrabat began struggling for minutes and attracting major criticism from fans who were left thoroughly underwhelmed by his impact at Old Trafford. Sure, he's an emergency option at left-back, but that should probably be as far as it goes.

Turn to the academy

Ten Hag should consider turning to his academy, where he has a handful of talents capable of helping out if needed.

Fernandez's departure has opened the door to 19-year-old Sam Murray but he is not eligible for the first team, having joined Rochdale on a unique loan deal which still leaves him free to play for United's Under-21s. Murray started the recent 2-1 win over Manchester City - an academy game which was decided by a goal from 37-year-old Tom Huddlestone.

As for players who could actually feature for Ten Hag, 18-year-old James Nolan is a natural right-back but has seen plenty of minutes out on the left, while 16-year-old Harry Amass is among the most exciting prospects in England in his position.

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