If Manchester United fans haven't had much to rave about in recent weeks, one major positive has been the return of Luke Shaw.

Perhaps it's a little early to talk of the left-back putting a run of games together, but he has featured in all of the last three matches against Everton, Southampton, and Burnley.

Jose Mourinho has never shied away from criticising him, even publicly, yet he must have been impressed by the 22-year-old's new-found composure on the ball.

He's looking fitter too, as the extra hours he's put in on the training ground are beginning to show.

Ashley Young's three-match suspension for an elbow on Dusan Tadic should work further in Shaw's favour, as the winger had been being used as a makeshift full-back.

All this would suggest that the England international is gradually working himself back into the reckoning at Old Trafford. However, it's becoming increasingly urgent that he convinces Mourinho to persevere with him as he enters the final 18 months of his contract.

Unless United bring in a replacement this month, his place should be safe for the remainder of the season - beyond that, who knows?

The Mirror's latest update on his situation goes some way towards explaining whether he's still valued at the Theatre of Dreams, as it's claimed he now believes he won't be sold this month.

Mourinho had some questions 

In a private meeting with Mourinho at the team hotel, Shaw was reportedly asked whether he feels fully fit, mentally ready, and if he can be relied upon, having undergone foot surgery last year.

Of course, it's also just a couple of years since he suffered that horrific leg-break against PSV Eindhoven.

The defender told his manager that he is indeed recovered and now thinks he is in a position to hold down a regular starting spot.

That said, he knows his long-term future is not guaranteed and he still has a fight on his hands to ensure he isn't succeeded by Spurs' Danny Rose or Fulham's Ryan Sessegnon.

The fact that Mourinho took the time to hold a meeting with him suggests that for all his bashing of Shaw, he still sees a decent player in there somewhere.

Should Manchester United keep Luke Shaw? Have your say in the comments.