Why Solskjaer Picked Luke Shaw Over Young And Williams For The Manchester Derby

Manchester United fans are now ecstatically celebrating their side’s outstanding 2-1 victory over Manchester City, with first-half goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial securing all three points for the traveling side.

However, a section of these same fans weren’t too pleased with Solskjaer’s team selection ahead of the game.

The Norwegian gaffer had elected to start Luke Shaw, who is thought to be still retaining his form after recovering from injury, ahead of Ashley Young, who was impeccable against Tottenham Hotspur.

Further still, while Young was benched for the game, many were still upset to see the impressive Brandon Williams likewise on the substitutes list.

However, Solskjaer defended his selection choice before the start of the game by stating (via MUTV): “Mason did well [versus Tottenham], Ashley did well, but Mason is a young boy and it was his first start, Ash is getting on a little bit and I don’t think it would have been fair to play him again with only two days of recovery, so Luke is ready. He played over in Astana and he’s trained really well. I hope we’ll see the best of Luke.”

Much to the relief of all parties involved, Shaw was a sight of brilliance throughout his time on the pitch.

In fact, it was Shaw’s composure that kept Silva quiet for much of the game, blocking one of Manchester City’s primary means of finding goals.

While it is understandable why the fans would be eager to see an academy graduate start against the likes of City, the month that Williams has been enjoying is already an unprecedented one.

In fact, this is a positive kind of problem that Solskjaer has as he now enjoys the availability of three in-form left-backs for the rest of the busy winter period.

Which of the three will start versus AZ Alkmaar at Old Trafford on Thursday?