Luke Shaw finds himself at a crossroads right now.Having failed to establish himself in Manchester United’s first team, the left-back is now trying to resurrect his career in the club’s Under-23 side.He was named in the team that took on West Ham at the London Stadium and the reaction from those in attendance was far from positive.“Doesn't seem to have registered with Shaw that he's playing for his future,” one United supporter tweeted.“No urgency or desire & looks like he's playing in a testimonial.”
Not exactly what Jose Mourinho wanted to hear.
Shaw looked uninterested against West Ham
Shaw featured as West Ham’s Under-23 side ran out 4-2 winners.
And a video of West Ham’s goals shows just how little Shaw bothered.
There was little he could do about the Hammers’ first and second goals but questions can certainly be asked about his involved in the third and fourth.
He was slow in tracking back for the third goal and simply watched as the eventual goalscorer, Antonio Martinez, sprinted past him.
And for the fourth, he failed to put in a solid challenge as Joe Powell created a yard for himself and slotted home with his left foot.
Check out the video below.
Shaw has had weight problems
Most of the reaction to Shaw’s performance referred to him being overweight, a problem that has been noticeable throughout his career.
Back in 2014, former United boss Louis van Gaal devised a special programme designed to help Shaw reached the required fitness levels.
“I am always a trainer-coach who sees individuals and what they need,” Shaw said, per The Guardian. “He needs to be fit and is not very fit and fit enough to do what I want. He needs to train individually until he is fit."
“I see what I see. I have spoken with him and we have made a programme for him. He agreed with me.”
That was three years ago. Shaw suffered a nasty injury in 2015 and had to wait seven months before he could train again.
The 22-year-old has never appeared the same since breaking his leg but he does have age on his side.
Shaw can still have a fine career if he starts putting in the work.