Paul Parker urges Michael Carrick to drop Luke Shaw as United rebuilds

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick (Picture: Shutterstock) faces fresh pressure as former defender Paul Parker publicly declares left‑back Luke Shaw “not good enough”, urging the Red Devils to find a replacement before Carrick’s first full season begins.

United are looking to rebuild their squad as Carrick prepares for his inaugural full campaign in charge of the Red Devils. The club’s hierarchy has signalled a clear intent to reshape the team’s core. This rebuilding effort follows a season in which Shaw featured in every league match.

Midfield overhaul after Casemiro exit

The departure of Casemiro has made bolstering midfield a priority for United. Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea while Youri Tielemans joined from Aston Villa, adding fresh options to the middle of the park. Both signings are expected to compete for starting roles under Carrick’s system.

Elsewhere, Karl Darlow has arrived from Leeds United to serve as a back‑up to Senne Lammens after an impressive debut season at Old Trafford. The goalkeeper’s addition expands United’s options between the sticks as the squad deepens.

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Left‑back concerns intensify

Shaw started all 38 league matches last season, a £30 million acquisition from 2014, yet Parker believes the 31‑year‑old cannot meet United’s demands. Lewis Hall of Newcastle United and Myles Lewis‑Skelly have both been linked with a move to Old Trafford as potential replacements.

“Luke Shaw can’t run and he can’t defend or attack, so what do you need him for?” Parker said, adding that Dalot would also be an issue if deployed on the left. “They really need a mobile full‑back with agility who can defend properly as well and a player who can do a job up and down the pitch.”

Parker also suggested giving teenager Harry Amass a chance, recalling his performances for Sheffield Wednesday. “I saw Harry Amass play a couple of games and the Wednesday fans were raving about him,” he explained, urging United to introduce young talent rather than rely solely on established names.

Regarding the Andrey Santos signing, Parker expressed surprise and caution. “The Andrey Santos signing did catch me by surprise… I need to see more from Andrey Santos before I can give a proper verdict,” he said, stressing that United should avoid adding squad players who do not improve the starting eleven.