Manchester United legend Paul Scholes says Luke Shaw’s return to the starting lineup at the weekend is a big boost for his former club.

The left-back had been sidelined with a muscular injury for the best part of three months but he was back in the team for the 3-0 win over Everton, and Scholes says the defender has been missed:

“Luke Shaw’s a big miss. He gives you real balance on the left-hand side. He gets you up the pitch with his pace. I think he’s been a huge miss.”

Shaw lasted 76 minutes before he made way for Aaron Wan-Bissaka at Goodison Park, and it appears like he will have an important part to play heading into the festive period next month.

Analysing Shaw’s performance against Everton

While United did keep a clean sheet at the weekend, they were put under a lot of pressure in the first half, especially after Alejandro Garnacho put them into the lead.

However, Erik ten Hag’s side stood strong, and Shaw played his part, winning two aerial duels, making three clearances, winning one tackle and committing zero fouls.

United have lacked balance on the left flank without Shaw

As Scholes mentions, the Red Devils have had issues replacing the England international following his injury. They brought in Sergio Reguilon on loan from Tottenham but the Spaniard does not possess the quality to play at the highest level.

With that being the case, it has forced ten Hag into starting Diogo Dalot and sometimes Victor Lindelof out of position, and that hasn’t helped the team in terms of their balance, particularly in attack.

As Shaw works well in tandem with Marcus Rashford, it should help get the most out of the forward as well.

Watch our pundits discuss the latest Manchester United and Manchester City news on Shots!TV here