Luke Shaw’s near return raises United’s hopes before Brighton clash

Luke Shaw’s near return provides a decisive boost for Man United ahead of the Carabao Cup tie with Brighton at Old Trafford, a match that could halt the club’s recent slide.

Michael Carrick warned that United have “got to get back to winning football matches” after a contentious derby defeat to Manchester City, a loss that left the table looking awkward. Four points from a possible twelve is a poor start, Carrick said, and the squad must respond.

The next opportunity arrives in the Carabao Cup, where United will face Brighton at Old Trafford. There is a revenge angle too, as Brighton beat United in the FA Cup earlier in the year, reminding the Red Devils of the need for intensity.

Injury list ahead of the Carabao Cup

Luke Shaw suffered a knock in the 2‑2 draw with Everton on September 6 and missed the Champions League win over Sabah. Carrick described his condition as “close, very close, just not quite there”, suggesting a possible return on September 16 against Brighton.

Carlos Baleba arrived from Brighton for £70m but carries an ankle ligament injury from a pre‑season match against Strasbourg. Carrick noted “a little ankle issue… maybe a couple of weeks or so, maybe three weeks”, putting his realistic comeback after the international break, perhaps on October 10 versus Tottenham.

Amad Diallo missed the opening‑day defeat at Hull after an ankle problem in training, with early estimates pointing to around six weeks out, likely after the international break. Matthijs de Ligt, who is edging back from back surgery, has been training well and could be available on September 16, offering depth at centre‑back.

Manuel Ugarte remains sidelined after a ligament injury with Uruguay during the summer, and Tom Heaton continues his long‑term absence, meaning United’s options remain stretched across key areas.