Erik ten Hag explains Luke Shaw and Fred line-up decision ahead of Man United’s clash vs Man City

Erik ten Hag has explained his Manchester United line-up decision ahead of hosting Manchester City as the manager chooses Luke Shaw at centre-back as Fred returns to the starting XI.

Lisandro Martinez has started just once, in United’s last game against Charlton Athletic, since he returned from the World Cup. Shaw has been preferred in this Premier League derby after three solid showings in the centre in recent weeks.

Meanwhile, Fred comes into the midfield with Antony dropping out of the side. It is expected that Bruno Fernandes will move to the right wing.

“It is an idea,” Ten Hag told BT Sport when asked about the surprises in the line-up. “We have a plan with that, we have to make choices, and it also gives us pace there in the midfield or behind the defending line.”

Speaking to MUTV, the manager added: “The last couple of games, a lot of clean sheets, they [Varane and Shaw] played really well together. Also, Licha Martinez returned from the World Cup and didn’t have a lot of games. He played 90 minutes against Charlton, but we need big games.

“That was four weeks ago, at the World Cup, so I think 90 minutes is a lot, but he can contribute, he’s ready to come in, but I also think it’s tactical, it fits really well with the physical, with Haaland and De Bruyne, players around covering the full-backs.”

Shaw has been successful in three games whilst playing alongside Raphael Varane but this time around will be the toughest test so far.

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“We have seen the last two games he has been fabulous,” said Ten Hag after victory against Wolves. “In possession, you can have better angles with the left foot. He has impressed but, of course, we know he is really good as a left full-back. It’s an extra option and that’s always good for a team.

“I thought (against Wolves) it was the best match with Rapha and Luke. Especially defending wise, we know the speed from Wolves on the right side, and (Shaw) could cover that because we want to attack over on the left side with offensive game from Tyrell Malacia so that was a good fit.”

Similarly, City will be looking to attack with speed, and with Martinez having just a single full match under his belt, Ten Hag has gone with the decision to start the fully fit Shaw in his place.

Tyrell Malacia comes into the side as the left-back.

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