McShane’s Old Trafford return is a pain in the hip

YOUNG Wicklow-born defender Paul McShane has returned to Manchester United after having his loan spell at Walsall cut short.

McShane, the youngest player in United’s 2003/04 Champions League squad, returned to Old Trafford yesterday for treatment on a recurring hip problem.

The 19-year-old defender started two games for Walsall and came on twice as substitute.

“Paul has gone back after his hip started troubling him again,” said manager Paul Merson.

“I’d like to thank him because he got stuck in for us and showed a great attitude.

“Now we’re talking to Manchester United to see if they’ll help us out so we don’t have to pay for the rest of Paul’s loan spell.”

Paul McShane played in last season’s Ireland Under-19 side and was recently called up to represent his country again. He made his Manchester United first team debut on their summer tour of the USA.

McShane began his football career with St Joseph’s Boys, before signing for United in 2002.