Luke Shaw praised by Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho for performance in win over CSKA Moscow: 'He made a great contribution to the team'

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Luke Shaw made the most of a rare opportunity to start for Manchester United, with Jose Mourinho describing his performance as 'very, very good'.

Left back Shaw had not started for United in 219 days before playing 90 minutes against CSKA Moscow on Tuesday in a 2-1 Champions League win. 

The England international was praised by Mourinho for his attacking intent, and for having the fitness to last the full game. 

Luke Shaw made the most of a rare start with Jose Mourinho praising his performance

Shaw had not started for United in 219 days before playing 90 minutes against CSKA Moscow

The England international was praised by Mourinho for his attacking intent and fitness

Speaking to BT Sport after the game, Mourinho said: 'Some of the guys who do not play regularly, Luke Shaw, especially offensively was very, very good, and made a great contribution to the team.

'He was waiting for quite a long time, he has been deserving for quite a long time. It is not easy to give an opportunity to a player that does not play for many months in matches where the team really needs results.

'He managed to stay on for 90 minutes. I told him this is not a test, this is an opportunity to play and prove your level. Honestly I am happy with his performance.'

Ex-United player Paul Scholes said Shaw needs to gain greater professionalism off the pitch

Shaw has found opportunities very hard to come by at United under Mourinho, who has publicly criticised the defender previously. 

Accusations about Shaw's lifestyle and fitness have dogged the former Southampton player, with former United player Paul Scholes saying Shaw needs to gain greater professionalism off the pitch.

He said:  'It's difficult to say as we don't see what goes on behind the scenes. I don't think he lives his life as clean as he possibly should do.

'I hope there is a future for him. A couple of years ago, I thought we were signing the best left back in the world.'