Man Utd already have award-winning Luke Shaw successor that will save them millions

Manchester United already have a long-term successor to Luke Shaw at the club - and he has just won another award.

Shaw signed for United in the summer of 2014, and remains a regular starter almost nine years on.

Now at 27 years of age and with over 175 appearances under his belt, the England international has experienced many highs and lows as part of the first team.

Earlier this year, he signed a new four-year contract at United that keeps him at the club until 2027 - an indication of the faith manager Erik ten Hag has in him.

But he has received competition this season in form of Tyrell Malacia, who signed for the club from Dutch giants Feyenoord last summer.

It was the addition of the 23-year-old that in turn prompted United to loan out one of their top young prospects - and he has impressed during this campaign.

Man Utd have long-term Shaw successor

Alvaro Fernandez has spent the season on loan at Championship side Preston North End, in what is the Spaniard's first regular experience of senior football.

The 20-year-old has primarily played as a left wing-back in manager Ryan Lowe's system, although did feature as a central midfielder during a 1-1 draw with Luton in February.

Fernandez's strongest attribute has been his ability to drive forward with the ball, and he often likes to cut inside to create chances in attacking areas.

Much like the majority of young defenders, he does have areas to improve on both defensively and positionally, but he has shown progress throughout the Championship season.

He has laid on four assists in his 39 appearances by bursting down the left flank, something that will no doubt have impressed Ten Hag and his staff.

Having been named as United's U21 player of the year last season, his displays this time around have earned him PNE's young player of the season award.

While it could be that United deem that he needs another loan spell next term, the former Real Madrid youngster has shown that he has the potential to feature for the Red Devils in the future as long as he continues his development.

Topics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, EFL Championship, Preston North End, Luke Shaw

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.