Shaw's return to action delayed by setback in blow for Cobblers

The 25-year-old has not played since February 2024 when he sustained a serious ACL injury playing for Cobblers against Barnsley. He briefly returned to training in December last year before a second issue meant he missed the whole of the 2025/26 season.

The plan was for Shaw to work his way back for the start of the new season, however although he did train with his team-mates at the start of pre-season, he has not featured in any of Town’s five friendlies, and after Tuesday’s 0-0 draw at Cambridge, manager Chris Hogg revealed news of a setback.

He said: “Shawsy has had a little procedure and he’s had a clear-out on his knee and that’s bumped him back a little while. It’s more of a speed bump rather than a road block on his journey but it’s one that we hope will end up being a positive once he is back.

“It was just a little issue he had as he was trying to get back and he needed to get it sorted. He’s in a good place, the procedure went really well, and we’re hoping it will be a medium spell of time before we get him back.”

Asked if it changed his plans in the transfer market, Hogg replied: “No, I was already clear on what we needed. I’ve got on really well with Shawsy since I came in and I’ve seen him play for previous clubs so I know what he can do.

“I know he’s going to be a good player for us when he returns, but we still have to strengthen and add more depth to the team.”