Sir Jim Ratcliffe got his wish after Manchester United defender Luke Shaw came out of the Euro 2024 final unscathed. The INEOS chief asked for the England star to ensure he did not suffer another hamstring injury ahead of returning to the Premier League club after the tournament.
Shaw went into the tournament having not played since February. A hamstring injury limited his impact for the Red Devils during the 2023-24 campaign.
The 28-year-old suffered setbacks while in Germany but finally appeared in England’s quarter-final win over Switzerland. He then played 45 minutes against the Netherlands in the semi-final and played the full final against Spain.
Ahead of the showpiece event, Ratcliffe was filmed saying in a good luck video message published by the BBC: “Luke, please don't pull your hamstring again.”
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The United minority owner will be delighted to welcome back a fully-fit Shaw to the club’s Carrington training base over the coming weeks. Head coach Erik ten Hag will hope to use the former Southampton star more often next term.
Shaw made only 12 Premier League appearances last season. His absence was part of a wide-ranging injury crisis that United are desperate to avoid repeating next season.
Ten Hag went for most of last season without a recognised left-back. Tyrell Malacia missed the entire campaign through injury, with Shaw also missing large parts. Loanee Sergio Reguilon was sent back to Tottenham in January after United incorrectly believed Malacia was set to return from a knee injury.
Having not played for much of the Premier League campaign, Shaw’s inclusion in the England squad came as a surprise. Manager Gareth Southgate left out other previously key players, such as Harry Maguire and Ben Chilwell, due to concerns over their fitness.
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Shaw made his first start of the tournament in the final against Spain. He was unable to prevent a 2-1 defeat which extended England’s major trophy drought to 58 years. Mikel Ozaryabal struck late on to seal a devastating night for the Three Lions.
Players who featured at the Euros and the Copa America are likely to be given an extra few weeks off before they return to their Premier League club. Shaw will hope for an injury-free pre-season ahead of the new campaign.
United face a Community Shield clash with Manchester City on August 10 before hosting Fulham on their first Premier League outing on August 16.
