Manchester United vs Tottenham: 5 reasons why Alexis Sanchez could be key for the Red Devils

#4 His understanding with Luke Shaw

Shaw looks much fitter and leaner this season

Luke Shaw already has 4 shots this season, second only to Pogba, with 2 of those on target. He has also scored the winning goal against Leicester, a fine volley after receiving the ball from Mata.

However, Shaw could not influence the game against Brighton at all. one of the reasons for his ineffectiveness was Antony Martial’s style of play. Against Leicester, Shaw hugged the touchline and repeatedly bombed forward through the left side, causing Leicester a lot of trouble.

This was possible because Sanchez regularly cut inside from the left and gave the English youngster space to run into. Against Brighton, Martial took up the position that Shaw thrives in, causing friction between the two and rendering Shaw mostly ineffective.

When Sanchez returns to the team, Shaw should be able to stretch his legs and will be a threat through the left again. Sanchez and Shaw also regularly found each other in the Leicester game and combined well together. The Chilean even contributed in defence, tracking back from time to time and helping out Shaw.

Manchester United need Sanchez back so that Shaw can continue his progression.