Luke Shaw: this is the most positive and happiest team I've played for at Man Utd

Ahead of the new Premier League season, Man United defender Luke Shaw spoke to the club's official website.

Another new season, Luke—your 13th season, I guess, at Man United. You're still as excited about the season as anyone else.

Of course. I think your feelings are always the same. Every year, it's the same. Every pre-season, you have the same desire and the same excitement. But with the team, the manager, and the current state of the club, I'm really, really positive about this season. Everyone here is very positive, so I'm really looking forward to the new season.

You’ve said before that the atmosphere within the team right now is one of the best you’ve experienced at Man United. Is that accurate?

Yes, I think that’s 100% accurate. As you said, I’ve been here a long time, so I’ve experienced different teams and different atmospheres. But I would definitely say this is the most positive, happiest group, and probably the most talented squad we’ve had.

Does team continuity also help? Obviously, many clubs have undergone a lot of changes this summer, but that is not the case for Man United, is it?

Of course, many clubs experience this. But for us, the positive thing is that the new players who have joined so far have integrated well into the team. They not only bring very good energy on the pitch but also off it. They get along well with their teammates and have adapted quickly. For us, it has always been important to make them feel at home. They are very good additions to the team.

Luke, as a veteran who has played for Man United for many years, is helping new players adapt to the team and helping young players grow also part of your responsibilities?

Of course. I’ve been at this club for so long and have gained a lot of experience. For me, Man United is the biggest club in the world. I think sometimes coming to this club is not as easy as you might think. I’ve been through a lot here, with ups and downs. I’ve learned a lot. For me, it’s about passing on my experience to them, helping them understand this club more quickly and adapt to it.

We did some research and believe you are currently the longest-serving active player at the same Premier League club. I think Lewis Dunk and Adam Smith have been at their respective clubs longer, but they haven’t always been in the Premier League. This is a truly remarkable achievement.

I didn’t know that before. To be honest, it’s very special. I feel very honored to have been here for so long. It feels a bit like home now. I hope I can keep it up and have a great season this year.

Last season was indeed fantastic. You set an incredible record by playing in every game for the team. How did you manage that?

I'm personally very proud, especially after the previous season, which was probably one of the toughest of my career. I couldn't find a way to get on the pitch or help the team. But last season was great for me. I feel like I found a new way through Pilates, and I feel that really helped me stay in very good physical condition all season.

Last question. Obviously, we’ll be facing promoted teams like Hull City and Ipswich early in the new season. You played against Hull City in 2016, in a game Man United won, and you scored a late goal.

I remember. It was Rooney's cross, right? In the last minute.

That’s right, you played very well then.

I remember. I think these are all very exciting games, especially facing promoted teams away from home. The atmosphere is always great when playing against a team like Man United. But I think we have to be prepared. It will be a tough game, and not easy. So we have to be 100% ready, both mentally and physically. If we are prepared and do everything right, then I believe we will perform well.

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