Manchester United's Luke Shaw out for 'number of weeks' due to injury

Manchester United's left-back Luke Shaw is set to face an extended period on the sidelines as he recovers from a muscle injury, the club reported, compounding their early season woes with injuries.

The setback comes as Erik ten Hag's squad rebounds from a disheartening 2-0 defeat against Tottenham, gearing up to host Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford this Saturday.

According to a statement released by United, "Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has sustained an injury, which will rule him out of forthcoming games."

While the exact nature of the muscle ailment is still under assessment, reports suggest that Shaw is anticipated to remain out of action for several weeks.

United's challenges were already exacerbated by the absence of fellow English international Mason Mount, who is slated to miss the upcoming two matches due to a hamstring injury sustained during last weekend's clash with Tottenham.

As the situation unfolds, both Shaw and Mount are also expected to be sidelined for Manchester United's clash against last season's Premier League runners-up, Arsenal, scheduled for September 3, just before the international break.

The prospects for their participation in England's Euro 2024 qualifiers against Ukraine and Scotland in the ensuing month also appear bleak.

The injury involving Shaw is set to pose a particular conundrum for Ten Hag, given that backup left-back Tyrell Malacia is still recovering from an injury sustained last season. Meanwhile, fellow left-back Brandon Williams has embarked on a season-long loan to EFL Championship side Ipswich Town, a move sealed on Thursday.

One option for manager Erik ten Hag would be right-back Diogo Dalot, who has prior experience on the left of defence.