Man United simply must sign a defender in January – and here’s why

First choice options are injury prone

If you had to name United’s first choice defence it would probably be something along the lines of: Shaw, Smalling, Bailly and Valencia/Darmian. Out of these players Shaw and Smalling have had injury troubles throughout their careers so far.

Smalling managed to stay fit last season and it’s no surprise it was his most impressive to date, but this campaign has seen his injury problems return. The Englishman has only managed to feature in half of United’s Premier League games so far.

Shaw undoubtedly has massive potential, but will it ever be realised as he continues to be plagued by injury? United need players to perform in the here and now, as they look to get back into Europe’s premier competition by securing a top four place this term.