Luke Shaw Praised As Carrick Revival Boosts His England Case
Stuart Pearce has urged renewed consideration of Luke Shaw for England duty after the left-back’s improved displays under Michael Carrick, saying United’s recent upturn has put Shaw back in the conversation despite a history of injuries.
Shaw’s Form Under Carrick And United’s Early Revival
Michael Carrick’s brief time in charge has coincided with a marked change in Manchester United’s form. After just three days of training, Carrick led the team to a derby win at Old Trafford against Manchester City and followed that with a victory over Arsenal sealed by a last-minute winner from Matheus Cunha. Those results have seen the squad described as “reborn, ” and several players who had not featured under the previous manager have emerged.
Within that turnaround, Luke Shaw has been singled out by Pearce for his improved performances. Pearce said: “If Manchester United carry on the ascension that they’re on at the moment, you have got to talk about Luke Shaw for England duty. He’s got experience at the tournaments. When he’s been out of the England side, we’ve missed him. He’s a rounded left-back. “
Luke Shaw’s Injury History And Playing Time
Shaw’s Manchester United career has been disrupted by significant injuries. He suffered a horrific leg break in the Europa League and has seen limited action in recent campaigns, with 12 appearances in the 2024/25 campaign and 15 in 2023/24. That restricted game time has left questions about his consistency and fitness, even as his current displays have impressed observers.
Pearce acknowledged those concerns while highlighting Shaw’s mentality: “I worked with him at Under-21 level. I know his mentality. More to the point, I don’t think there’s been another left-back that has come along that has made us say, we can’t stop thinking about Luke Shaw. “
Squad Competition, International Risk And What Comes Next
Competition at left-back for England is described as strong, with a number of players now viewed as viable options. Pearce noted that no one has clearly nailed the position, which helps explain why Shaw’s resurgence is being talked about. He pointed to other candidates who have come in and underlined that, if Shaw can recover the best form he has shown, he could be considered the number one option.
There is also concern at club level about Shaw’s availability for the season if he is selected for international duty, given a past injury sustained while on national team duty in 2024. People at the club would prefer he remain fit for United rather than risk another international-related setback.
For now, the immediate storyline is tied to Manchester United’s trajectory under Carrick and whether that momentum continues. If the club maintains its ascension and Shaw sustains his form and fitness, Pearce believes the left-back should be part of the England conversation — with his experience and leadership cited as valuable attributes even if he is not the first-choice starter.
