Stoke boss Hughes backing Shawcross for Zlatan recovery

Zlatan Ibrahimovic gave Ryan Shawcross an England debut to forget four years ago, but Stoke City boss Mark Hughes believes his defender has the perfect opportunity to put his personal demons to rest.

Ibrahimovic scored four goals – including an amazing overhead kick – as Sweden beat England 4-2 in Shawcross’ first game for his country in November 2012 when Roy Hodgson was at the helm.

And with the Swede playing in his maiden season in the Premier League, Sunday will see the two go head-to-head when Stoke make the trip to Old Trafford – a game Hughes feels won’t faze his central defender.

“It’s an opportunity for Ryan I think. He’s had to carry those moments from those games for a long time which has affected people’s view of him as a potential full international on a more regular basis,” said Hughes.

“It’s an opportunity to put together a few issues from the past and bury a few ghosts so let’s hope he has a good performance. There’s no reason why he shouldn’t; he’s getting back to form like we all feel we are.

“But clearly Ibrahimovic is an outstanding player. He’s come to the Premier League late in his career but it doesn’t look as though any of his talent is waning. He’s a big personality and a big player.”