JOSE MOURINHO claims Luke Shaw had “emotional scars” that he tried to help the recalled England left-back heal.
Mourinho famously criticised Shaw’s form and fitness during their up-and-down relationship at Manchester United.
And with the 25-year-old starting against Scotland at Euro 2020 on Friday night, Mourinho insists Shaw was one of the players he had to “push” when he was Old Trafford boss.
The new Roma chief told talkSPORT: “I found a boy after an incredible injury which risked his career.
“I found a boy with some fear and emotional scars.
“I was trying to improve mentalities, I was trying to make ambition and responsibility – to grow up.
“It was not easy for him and I have to admit that I pushed the players to their limits, and sometimes players are not ready to follow me.
“We had a good period. He has a lot of talent.”
Mourinho also suggested Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate had brought back Shaw and opposite full-back Reece James to boost his attacking options.
Shaw came in for Kieran Tripper and James replaced Kyle Walker following Sunday’s 1-0 win over Croatia in England’s group opener.
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Mourinho said: “Kyle Walker is very good and experienced but Reece James has incredible attacking quality and a fantastic cross.
“Gareth has changed for two more offensive full backs, which looks a good decision because he has kept the two strong positional midfielders in Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips to give that stability.
“I think it’s a normal choice, not changing the spine or structure, and trying to give a bit more speed going forward.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
