Romelu Lukaku is already looking ahead to the end of the season after naming an early contender for Manchester United’s Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year.
The 28-year-old Spanish ‘keeper became the first player to win it for three consecutive years, but he missed out on it in the 2016-17 season when Ander Herrera scooped the award.
“Luke Shaw has been the best player of the season for me,” he told the club’s website.
“He has been brilliant since the start. He scored in the first game of the season against Leicester City and he has never looked back.”
Shaw’s career at Old Trafford has failed to lift off since his move from Southampton in 2014, whether it has been down to injuries, his form dropping or failing to hold a regular spot in the starting XI.
However, the 23-year-old left-back has been able to bounce back this season and even committed his future to the club in 2018 after he penned a new five-year deal.
In fact, Lukaku went on to suggest that Shaw could become one of the best left-backs in the world.
“He has always had the potential of being one of the best left-backs in the world, from the time when I used to play against him when he was at Southampton to now,” he explained.
“He has had his injuries, but he’s playing regularly now and I am really happy for him. I hope he is going to keep on delivering.”
Shaw could face a tough challenge for Player of the Year in the form of Paul Pogba, who has been backed by United legend Eric Cantona to win the award.
“Before Ole [Gunnar Solskjær’s arrival], there was no player of the year for me. It was obvious they were not enjoying the game,” he said.
“Since he arrived, you can see everybody wants the ball, everybody moves, they enjoy the game and want to score — they play with pleasure and enjoyment now.
“Paul Pogba is great, now. Ole has found the right position for him, he has a great vision and pass, he can score and assist goals, organise the game and defend.
Who should win the Player of the Year award?
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