Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has insisted that having competition in every position is essential, admitting that performing well in training is vital under Erik ten Hag.
The England international has started the last three matches for Ten Hag's side, with the left-back performing well in the recent victories over Everton and Tottenham Hotspur. Shaw, who has made a total of nine appearances so far this term, has played the full 90 minutes in his last few outings.
Despite starting the first two games of the season, against Brighton and Brentford respectively, Shaw was dropped from the starting line-up and replaced by Tyrell Malacia. The Dutchman was impressive and appeared as though he had asserted himself as first choice, but Shaw has regained his spot recently.
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Shaw has suggested that fighting hard for his starting place every week is important and that Ten Hag will only pick players if they are delivering in training. ''I think competition is always healthy, everyone wants to play every game but you understand the manager only can pick 11,'' Luke added.
''I think the new thing here with this new manager is if you are playing well and not training well, you are not going to be in the team. Everyone knows that and it keeps everyone on their toes. No-one can really relax and think they're going to play every game because with this manager you're not going to do that if you are not playing well.''
The 27-year-old, who joined United from Southampton in 2014, also insisted that he can see the team progressing under Ten Hag's management.
He added: ''I can see a lot of progress. I can see that the team is enjoying the new ideas and wanting to work with the new ideas,'' began Shaw, speaking to club media.
''He has brought a lot more intensity, a different structure and a structure that we now know what he wants us to do, which is a big help."
The Reds have only lost once so far this month, but face a busy period before the season pauses for the World Cup in Qatar. United have clashes against Sheriff Tiraspol and West Ham to come after their trip to Chelsea on Saturday evening.
