Luke Shaw is helping JJ Gabriel to settle in the Manchester United first-team environment following the teenager's recent involvement with the senior team.
Shaw's Support
United released footage of the squad heading out of Carrington's main building for training on Tuesday, and Shaw was pictured walking out with Gabriel and chatting to the youngster. Last weekend, Shaw walked out of the Strawberry Arena with Gabriel after United's pre-season win against Atletico Madrid. Gabriel was initially closest to the journalists in the mixed zone, but Shaw swapped sides to ensure the teenager was on the outside as they left the ground.
The 31-year-old has helped Gabriel to settle into the first-team over the last few weeks, although Shaw was already familiar with the talented prospect because he had stepped up to senior training last season. Shaw can offer advice, as he had a strong reputation while playing in Southampton's academy. He made his first-team debut at 16 before becoming one of the most expensive teenagers in the world when he signed for United for £30m.
Gabriel's Impressions
Gabriel has impressed United's players during training sessions at Carrington. Bryan Mbeumo said "you can feel that the little guy has something special", and Leny Yoro described him as a "really good player." Ayden Heaven said of Gabriel: "He's really good, obviously. For his age, he's unbelievable, and he's ready when he gets his chance. We expect a lot from him from what we see."
First-Team Involvement
Gabriel made the first-team squad for the first time when United visited Norway to play Rosenborg last month. He was an unused substitute, but was included in the squad again for last weekend's trip to Sweden. Michael Carrick gave Gabriel his 'senior debut' against Atletico Madrid, bringing him off the bench with eight minutes remaining. The Manchester Evening News reported in March that United planned to give Gabriel minutes in pre-season this summer.
