Luke Shaw allowed to miss PSV rematch to avoid reopening psychological wounds
Louis van Gaal has given Luke Shaw permission to stay away from Manchester United’s match against PSV in case he feels it will reopen the psychological wounds of his leg break in Eindhoven.
Shaw’s season was brought to an abrupt and painful halt two months ago when he broke his right leg in two places following a tackle by Hector Moreno.
The 20-year-old was enjoying his best run of form at United, but the challenge from behind by the PSV defender left his leg bent at a 45-degree angle.
Shaw had an operation in Eindhoven before returning to England where he has since undergone another procedure.
Injured players are often seen watching United games from the stands. But mindful that seeing United play against PSV could stoke some bad memories, Van Gaal has given Shaw a few days off from his rehabilitation which, the Dutchman admits, is proving to be a frustrating process for the England international.
“I think he is dealing with his injury very good, but now he is a little bit fed up with the daily routine so I give him four days off – also because of PSV,” the United manager said.
“Firstly, he was fed up with the daily routine. And secondly, I thought why he is fed up, maybe it is because of the PSV match and every player has to watch the game from the stadium to support their colleagues.
“I don’t think he will be here, but I don’t know. Maybe he surprises me.”
PSV coach Phillip Cocu hopes Moreno, who is expected to start, will not be booed by United fans as a result of the tackle that broke Shaw’s leg.
“I hope not,” the PSV boss said when asked if he thought Moreno would be booed.
“It was a very bad injury. Hopefully Luke Shaw will get back soon.
“He is a fantastic player. The most important thing will be that he is back on his feet shortly, joining the team and playing for Manchester United, but we don’t know what will happen tomorrow in the game.”
Having dropped just two points since the defeat to PSV in their opening group match, United will qualify for the last 16 if they beat PSV at Old Trafford.
Wayne Rooney, Anthony Martial and Marouane Fellaini returned to training after missing the 2-1 win at Watford, but all three have been told they must prove their fitness if they are to start on Wednesday.
Ander Herrera, Phil Jones, Michael Carrick and Antonio Valencia are out through injury, but Bastian Schweinsteiger could feature despite missing the open part of Tuesday’s training session.
