5 Things Luke Shaw Must Do to Take His Game Forward in 2014/15 Season

Luke Shaw has had a mixed—but promising—start to his Manchester United career. In order to build on that start, there are a number of areas which will require his attention. 

He is a young man who will hopefully have many fruitful years at Old Trafford.

Here are five things he would benefit from in the season ahead.

Stay Fit

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During pre-season, Louis van Gaal expressed concerns about Shaw's level of fitness, per the Guardian. 

Shortly after that, Shaw succumbed to a hamstring injury, and he did not make his United debut until 28 September, against West Ham United.

It is now vital that Shaw stays injury free for sustained periods this season, in order for him to bed in to his new surroundings.

With United's record with defensive injuries so far this season, that may seem like wishful thinking, but for Shaw, it is crucial.

Adapt to the Requirements of His Role Under Van Gaal

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Luke Shaw received criticism for his performance against West Bromwich Albion. He accepted some of the opprobrium, but also spoke up for himself, saying, per the Independent, "I wouldn't say I've been horrendous but I know I can do much better."

That article also contains some damning statistics about Shaw's contribution during the first half of that game. Shaw made a significantly better contribution against Chelsea, including four tackles and six clearances, per WhoScored.com.

This was helped in part by a change in United's approach. All season long, Van Gaal has been happy for both his full-backs to attack at the same time, which was partly why Shaw was caught out for West Brom's first goal. Against Chelsea, however, a more traditional approach saw Rafael and Shaw alternate their attacks.

Shaw will have to adapt his game to both strategies as the season progresses. 

Learn to Deal with the Spotlight

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The glare of the spotlight is likely to burn brighter at Manchester United than at Shaw's former club, Southampton. He has already responded on Twitter to the Mirror running a story about him being "out with mates."

"

@MirrorFootball am I not allowed to go out for dinner ? *

— Luke Shaw (@LukeShaw3) August 17, 2014

 

"

Frustrating as it may be, this kind of intrusion is part of football, given the level of celebrity imposed on players at United. Shaw will have to learn to deal with the added attention.

This is not to say he should not defend himself as he did above, merely that he will have to ensure it does not affect his football.

Develop an Understanding with Angel Di Maria

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Although Adnan Januzaj started on the left wing against Chelsea, Luke Shaw's primary companion on his side of the pitch this season is likely to be Angel Di Maria. 

Di Maria's quick-witted improvisation is a joy to watch as a fan, but Shaw will have to develop his ability to guess what the unpredictable Argentine will do next, as the season progresses.

This will ensure United are able to make the best use of Di Maria's talents, and that Shaw is able to fully contribute to United's attacking play.

Add Goals and Assists to His Game

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It took Patrice Evra a long time to start scoring for Manchester United. His most prolific season was 2012/13 when he managed four league goals. Arguably his most memorable goal—the dramatic strike against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final—came in his final season at the club.

Shaw has not yet scored a senior goal for club or country.

Additionally, he registered just one assist during his time in the Southampton first team, and United will be looking for him to improve on this. It is likely that he will, given that he will be involved in United's attacking build-up.

Goals are less certain, but if he could make them a part of his contribution, both he and the club would benefit immensely.