Manchester United were forced to come from behind against Crystal Palace as they picked up a vital 2-1 victory in the Premier League. And one player has earned widespread praise for his efforts at Selhurst Park.
The visitors struggled in the opening stages to fashion clear-cut chances, and Oliver Glasner's side then earned a spot kick after Leny Yoro brought down Jean-Philippe Mateta. Although the French striker was forced to take his spot kick twice because of a double-touch, he buried his effort to put the Eagles in front.
However, United rallied after the interval and were rewarded with an equaliser when Joshua Zirkzee buried an effort from a tight angle. And they then took the lead through Mason Mount, after Palace's wall failed to block his low effort from a free-kick.
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim crouches. Related
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A victory for the Red Devils ended a run of three games without a win in the Premier League. And while both Zirkzee and Mount deserve praise for their efforts, Luke Shaw is equally deserving of plaudits for his efforts in defence on Sunday.
Shaw's Masterclass Against Crystal Palace
Manchester United's Luke Shaw controls the ball.
Premier League - Crystal Palace v Manchester United - Selhurst Park, London, Britain - November 30, 2025 Manchester United's Luke Shaw in action Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley
Amorim chose to play Shaw on the left of his back three, pushing Diogo Dalot further forward on the left flank. And while his shape has not always worked, as evidenced by their recent loss to Everton, the Englishman showed why he's relied upon by his manager.
On Sunday, Yoro was at fault for the penalty and Matthijs de Ligt endured a torrid time against Mateta, with him bullied at every turn. But, unlike his centre-back partners, Shaw was the standard-setter, putting in blocks and tackles whenever Palace's attackers swarmed forward in search of goals.
Shortly before half-time, with Eddie Nketiah bearing down on goal, the 30-year-old made an excellent last-ditch tackle to block the shot on goal. Had it not been for him, Palace might have doubled their advantage, giving the second half a very different complexion.
Check Out Shaw's Block Below:
The defender was the standout option at the back, making multiple interceptions, clearances and recoveries to keep his side in contention. Earning an 8.5/10 rating during the game, he was withdrawn in the 82nd minute for Lisandro Martinez, exiting the pitch to rapturous applause from travelling fans and praise from his manager.
Luke Shaw's Performance vs Crystal Palace
Minutes Played
Tackles (Won)
Interceptions
Clearances
Blocked Shots
Recoveries
Ground Duels (Won)
Aerial Duels (Won)
Dribbled Past
Accurate Passes
Fans Praise Shaw's Performance vs Crystal Palace
Luke Shaw of Manchester United arrives at Selhurst Park.
Luke Shaw of Manchester United arrives during the Premier League match Crystal Palace vs Manchester United at Selhurst Park, London, United Kingdom, 30th November 2025 (Photo by Alfie Cosgrove/News Images)
Although Man United supporters might have been disappointed with several of their players' performances on Sunday, they agreed that Shaw was one of the standouts. YouTuber Alice Talks Footy, writing at half-time, said that he was the reason why the game was not already out of sight.
"Luke Shaw is the reason why we ain’t 3-0 down. He’s been a one man defence these last five minutes."
The praise continued going into the second half, with a fellow supporter writing: "Luke Shaw has been outstanding today. So aggressive from minute one and I'm not sure he's lost a duel when he's gone in quick to close the attacker. Started attacks for us as well by doing that."
Another fan added: "Luke Shaw has won me back this season What a player." And those feelings were shared by a fellow supporter, who wrote: "Luke Shaw again brilliant going into the half space and getting tight."
Others observed that the defender was winding back the years, putting a performance reminiscent of his prime. One wrote, "Luke Shaw legacy game," which was echoed by another, who said, "World Cup year Luke Shaw is different gravy."