Man Utd star Luke Shaw has struggled with injuries

The England international has struggled to establish himself as a regular under Jose Mourinho following a series of injury woes.

He travelled with the Red Devils to the United States in the summer - and also to the UEFA Super Cup - but didn’t feature in either.

However, the former Southampton star played for United’s under 23s against Swansea last night.

And Shaw, 23, says remaining with the first-team during the close season was beneficial - but also difficult.

"It was really helpful," Shaw told ESPN.

"It was great for team bonding. There are new players coming in and everyone needs to get to know each other better because obviously we're going to be on the pitch together at times this season.

"It was nice, but at the same time it was frustrating and a bit sad because you want to be out there on the pitch.

“The games we played and the players we played against, I wished I was out there playing against them.

"It wasn't to be but we've got very important games this season with the Champions League, big Premier League games and cup games so there are a lot of games and I'll be ready when the manager calls on me."

Shaw broke his leg in a Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven nearly two years ago.

He also wrestled with a groin injury last term.

But the highly rated left-back insists he’s bouncing back.

"It's been tough but I've been through it before and I know how to deal with it," he added.

"When I look back at the one I had last time, I think I've came back stronger this time and more positive.

“Now it's about getting time on the pitch. I'm feeling really good and hungry for this season."