This makes the prospect of starting Lindelof there this Saturday a daunting one which could end horribly for Erik ten Hag in this season’s mini revival.

So with that in mind, there could potentially be just one natural option to replace Shaw this weekend, and it’s time Ten Hag unleashed him.

Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty ImagesErik ten Hag needs to pull the trigger on Harry Amass

If Shaw isn’t fit to play – and really he shouldn’t be rushed back – then the only proper choice to replace him without placing square pegs in round holes is Harry Amass.

At 16, he’d never normally be a player we’d suggest being called up to the senior side, although it was an extreme circumstance with few alternatives.

Turning 17 next month though, he’s already been called from the U18s into the U21s which is a massive step up within the academy for a player so young. Making his senior debut at 16, he’d also be following in the footsteps of Shaw who made his Southampton at the same age.

Amass has been incredible this season, impressing fans, particularly with his U18 display against Arsenal. While obviously, it isn’t ideal to have him in the first team right now, he is a special talent and could thrive already at this level.

In doing so, Ten Hag could also unleash the long-term Shaw replacement for the next decade and beyond. But there is a question to be raised on whether United should be looking to replace Shaw right now with a signing.

Should Manchester United be looking to replace Luke Shaw?

Going forward, United with Ineos in charge, won’t just be there to make up the numbers all being well, with title aspirations on the mind.

This makes the prospect of having a vital position vacated multiple times a season far from preferential, which is the case with Shaw at left-back.

This could tempt Dan Ashworth and Sir Jim Ratcliffe to consider overhauling the position with a player capable of playing week in and week out, at least until Amass is capable.

The issue is made worse with Tyrell Malacia also proving incredibly injury prone having not played this year at all. Therefore the best choice could be to overhaul the position.