Manchester, United Kingdom - Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has implored England Under-21 coach Gareth Southgate not to include left-back Luke Shaw in his squad for the European Championships.
The 19-year-old defender has endured an injury-plagued debut season at Old Trafford having joined United from Southampton in June last year.
Southgate will announce his squad for next month's U21 tournament in Czech Republic on May 20, but van Gaal does not want Shaw to be part of it.
"When he is not playing for Manchester United, he cannot play for other teams," van Gaal told reporters on Friday.
"He needs that rest I think, because he has over-crossed his limits, and that's why.
"He is 19 years old, what do you expect? We have to protect him and I hope that the coach of the U21s is understanding for that reason."
Shaw will be absent for United's Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday having sustained a concussion in the win over Crystal Palace last weekend.
Van Gaal also revealed that his striking options will be depleted for the visit of the third placed Gunners, with captain Wayne Rooney ruled out with a dead leg.
Centre-back Jonny Evans is doubtful with a knock, although striker Robin van Persie, winger Angel Di Maria and defender Marcos Rojo have all overcome a virus and should be available.
AFP
