Erik ten Hag explains Luke Shaw decision ahead of Europa League clash with Barcelona

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 16 Feb 2023 17:43 GMT
• 3 min read

Erik ten Hag has explained his reason for starting Luke Shaw at centre-back in the Europa League contest with Barcelona.

The Dutchman has also started Aaron Wan-Bissaka instead of Diogo Dalot for the game at the Nou Camp following his impressive form during the winter period.

The Premier League side take on the La Liga giants in the first leg of the Europa League playoff on Thursday night, with the chance to take home an advantage for the return leg at Old Trafford on February 23.

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Ten Hag’s side defeated Leeds 2-0 in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, where Shaw also started at centre-back.

He’s been put in again for that role to face Barcelona. Raphael Varane has also returned to the line-up.

Erik ten Hag on Luke Shaw

Ten Hag was asked about that decision to play Shaw there again, who is normally a left-back.

"Yeah, he [Shaw] is [impressive], but especially I think for this game, like against City, so in certain roles, he fits very good at centre back because it allows the full-back to get high and he can defend very good in the left wide area," he told MUTV.

"That's the plan for tonight. That as well [left-footed player], you get better angles in your possession game and we want to dictate in and out of possession. In possession, you have better build-up.

"The experience that he [Casemiro] brings to this squad with Rapha [Varane] is huge. Everyone can learn from it, but I also think you feel more secure when they're in your side. He [Sancho] can play between the lines and he's capable to give a good ball.

"We want to win, go front foot, we have to be brave but not naive - I hate naive football. But we go for it. We have a good plan."