The change in role has been the key point.
That matters because Shaw’s international argument has never really been about talent. It has been about availability. When fit, he offers balance, experience and delivery from the left, and he can also slot in as a left-sided centre-back. Reports suggest that versatility has helped put him back on the radar after not featuring for England since the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
A return to the picture is not the same as a guaranteed place.
That gives Tuchel a different profile to consider. If England want a specialist left-back, the younger names may appeal. If they want reliability and tactical flexibility, Shaw still has a strong case.
The bigger clue may be United’s own transfer thinking. Reports suggest the club still view left-back as a priority, even with Shaw back in form, while midfield is also set for major work after Casemiro’s confirmed exit at the end of the season.
Names have been linked on both fronts, with Elliot Anderson reportedly a leading midfield target and several left-backs under consideration. That points to a simple conclusion: Shaw’s revival is real, but United do not want to rely on him alone through a season likely to bring twice-weekly football again.
The next step is straightforward. If Shaw keeps starting and stays fit into the new campaign, the club rebuild and England’s final World Cup selection picture could start to move in his favour at the same time.