Alex Crook Criticises Luke Shaw After Manchester United Beat Ipswich 5-2

Luke Shaw has come under criticism following Manchester United’s Premier League clash with Ipswich Town, with talkSPORT pundit Alex Crook pointing to the defender as one of the reasons behind the club’s struggles to keep clean sheets.

Shaw endured a difficult afternoon against the newly promoted side at Old Trafford. His performance attracted attention after he was beaten by Abdul Fatawu, who subsequently created the opportunity for Leif Davis to open the scoring in the 29th minute.

Alex Crook Questions Luke Shaw’s Long-Term Form

Crook was highly critical of Shaw after watching the defender struggle against Ipswich. The pundit argued that the Manchester United left-back has been below his best for an extended period.

“I’ve got no words,” Crook said, describing Shaw’s performance as “awful” and questioning how long the defender has been performing below expectations.

He also suggested that Shaw remains part of Manchester United’s defensive problems and questioned why the club has not brought in another player to provide competition or cover in the position.

Luke Shaw Struggles Against Ipswich Attackers

Manchester United initially found themselves under pressure after Ipswich took the lead at Old Trafford. Shaw struggled to contain the visitors’ attacking threat, particularly during the move that resulted in Davis putting Ipswich ahead.

The criticism came despite Manchester United eventually producing a strong attacking response. Bruno Fernandes equalised before half-time, giving the hosts momentum going into the second half.

Manchester United Complete Comeback Against Ipswich

Manchester United completely changed the game after the interval. An own goal from Jacob Greaves put the Red Devils in front before Fernandes added two more goals within seven minutes to complete his hat-trick.

Bryan Mbeumo also found the net late in the match, while Chuba Akpom scored a consolation goal for Ipswich.

The final score was Manchester United 5-2 Ipswich Town, giving Michael Carrick’s side their first Premier League victory of the 2026-27 season.

Bruno Fernandes Leads Manchester United’s Revival

Fernandes was the standout performer for Manchester United, scoring three goals and helping his team recover from a difficult start.

His hat-trick turned what initially looked like another frustrating afternoon into a convincing victory. The Portuguese midfielder’s contribution was particularly important after United conceded first.

The result also provided Carrick’s team with an opportunity to build momentum following a challenging start to the new Premier League campaign.

What Is Next for Manchester United?

Manchester United will now look to build on the victory when they return to Premier League action in September.

Carrick’s side are scheduled to travel to Merseyside to face Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on September 6. They will then turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League, where they are set to face Sabah on September 10.

Manchester United will return to Premier League action on September 13 for a major meeting with Manchester City.

Manchester United’s Early-Season Position

Following the victory over Ipswich, Manchester United have collected three points from their opening two Premier League matches.

The Red Devils have scored five goals and conceded four in the league so far, leaving them with a positive goal difference of one.

While the attacking performance against Ipswich will provide encouragement, the criticism of Shaw highlights the defensive questions Manchester United still need to address as the season progresses.

With major fixtures against Everton and Manchester City approaching, United will need greater defensive consistency if they are to turn their strong attacking display into sustained Premier League form.