Adam Lallana: Luke Shaw is "mentally and physically strong"

Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana has defended former teammate Luke Shaw from apparent criticism by Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho.

Following the Red Devils' 3-1 win at Swansea City on November 6, the Portuguese manager spoke of players who are brave and "ones for whom a little pain can make a difference".

Shaw missed the trip to the Liberty Stadium alongside centre-back Chris Smalling, prompting suggestions that Mourinho was referring to the absent duo.

"I was with Luke Shaw at Southampton," Lallana told the Daily Star.

"He's a very strong boy. He's had a horrific leg injury. You don't come back from that without being mentally and physically strong.

"You don't come back from a leg break like he had without having difficult times mentally on your own."

Shaw has made seven Premier League appearances for United so far this season.