Manchester United are set to face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League today.
Luke Shaw is the longest-serving player at United, having joined the club from Southampton in 2014.
Shaw has played the majority of his career as a left-back but has recently been fulfilling the role of a left centre-back under manager Ruben Amorim.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the Derby, the England international admitted that he feels more comfortable in the wing-back spot.
He said: “Currently, I’m playing left centre-back and I’m content, but I still see myself more of a wing-back.
“The manager knows this, but he’s the one who decides. I’m happy to play anywhere.”
The 30-year-old has started all three league matches this term, each time on the left side of Amorim’s back three.
Injury setbacks have plagued him over the years, restricting him to just 37 appearances across the last two campaigns.
The left wing-back spot is a critical position in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system as the player has to be relentless with his runs up and down the flank.
Considering Shaw’s fitness issues, a permanent centre-back role may help him prolong his career and avoid further setbacks.
Despite the change in the position, expectations of Amorim for Shaw are very similar.
The manager wants him to step into midfield when required, cutting off opposition moves and keeping the team compact.
The £10.5 million-rated star is expected to play progressive passes that pierce defences.
Lisandro Martinez has mastered that art, and Shaw must now mirror it from his new berth.
Even if Shaw does not fully agree with Amorim’s decision, he has little choice but to embrace the role and make it his own.
Stats from Fotmob.com