Luke Shaw will go on to become a star for club and country, according to former Manchester United full-back Denis Irwin.
The England defender has endured an injury-interrupted debut season for Louis van Gaal’s side since his summer move from Southampton, but Irwin is convinced the 19-year-old’s class will shine through.
"I have no doubt he will be a great player for us in years to come," Irwin said.
Luke Shaw at the 2014 World Cup
"Until he gets a run of games I don't think you are going to see the quality Luke Shaw can bring to a side.
"When he gets that under his belt you will see the best of him.
"Hopefully he will stay injury-free for us for the rest of year and get a run of games."
Shaw has made 18 appearances for Manchester United – 12 in the Premier League – since he joined in June 2014.
He was named among Roy Hodgson’s 23-man squad for the 2014 World Cup
Denis Irwin made 529 appearances for Manchester United during a 12-year career at the club
Since then he has suffered fitness problems, including hamstring and ankle complaints – and admits it has taken him time to adjust to playing for Manchester United.
Irwin believes it is unreasonable to expect too much too soon from a player who only made his Premier League debut in November 2012.
"He has had a big couple of years," said Irwin, who played 529 times for the club.
“When you are 19 you will make mistakes and you will learn from them”
Denis Irwin on Luke Shaw
"He had a couple of years at Southampton, he had a big-money move here and he was involved in a World Cup at just 18 years old so the spotlight has been on him through no fault of his own.
"When you are 19 you will make mistakes and you will learn from them.
"I have no doubt he will be getting plenty of advice from the coaches and the manager."
