Luke Shaw has claimed he enjoys the intense and intimidating atmosphere of Anfield, ahead of Manchester United’s trip to Liverpool on Sunday.
The defender has endured some torrid matches at Anfield, most famously the 7-0 battering in 2023, in which Shaw played 90 minutes. But he has also contributed to some steely United displays, including the goalless draw two seasons ago, which provided an under-fire Erik ten Hag with some brief respite.
As United’s longest-serving player, Shaw is used to a hostile Anfield reception. He has played seven times at Anfield throughout his career, and the 30-year-old has admitted the stadium is a unique environment for the Red Devils.
“You really feel it," Shaw told United’s website ahead of the game. “Of course, not just when you're in the stadium, but leading into the stadium.
“You go along a one-way road and the bus is there, and there are a lot of fans outside. It really is hostile.
“I think as players, you kind of enjoy that moment; it really feels like a big game then. It can be very hostile. But I think it's part and parcel of football, the rivalry.”
Players of Manchester United look dejected as they leave the field.
Shaw was part of the side that lost 7-0 at Anfield in 2023
“I think once you are in the zone, you kind of forget about everything else,” Shaw continued. “It is, like you said, business as usual.
“But of course, before the game, I think always for me, when you get into the changing room, I think you zone out of most things and you completely focus on the game ahead and what needs to be done, that's just how I am.”
For a player blighted by injuries in recent years, Shaw has maintained a surprising level of consistency this season.
David de Gea has left Liverpool nemesis Manchester United
Shaw has struggled to contain Salah in the history of this fixture (Image: Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
The ex-Southampton man has started all seven Premier League matches for United this term, playing the full 90 minutes on four occasions.
He will likely line up against Liverpool as part of a back three at Anfield and face an old nemesis in Mohamed Salah.
The Egyptian has certainly enjoyed his meetings with United, and has scored 16 goals against the Red Devils over the years, more than any other opponent.