Huge boost for Man Utd! Luke Shaw makes surprise early return from injury ahead of crucial Premier League clash against Everton

On Wednesday United confirmed that Shaw has returned to group training after recovering from a muscular injury. The England international has been out of action since August and was not expected to return to action until December. With Erik ten Hag short of defensive options, the 28-year-old could be in contention to feature against Everton on Sunday.

On Wednesday morning, United published an official statement on their website that read: "Our cameras at Carrington have captured images of the left-back [Shaw] working with the main group, in advance of Sunday's game at Everton."

Erik ten Hag is expected to give an update on Shaw during his press conference on Friday.

United have endured a difficult start to the season, with injuries certainly playing a part. At various points this season Ten Hag has been without several key players, and at one stage had to deploy midfielder Sofyan Amrabat at left-back to cover for Shaw's absence. United currently find themselves sixth in the Premier League table with 21 points from 12 games.

Shaw's return would certainly ease one of the problems Ten Hag has had in recent weeks. Sunday's trip to Everton is a crucial one, but might come too soon for Shaw to be included in the starting XI.