Shaw: We had to give everything

The Reds showed heart, resilience and impressive fitness levels to overcome a talented Brighton & Hove Albion side 7-6 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw, three days on from the disappointing Europa League exit to Sevilla.

Shaw put in a confident display at centre-back at Wembley as the Reds set up an all-Manchester final against City at the national stadium on 3 June.

"On Thursday night, we weren’t there and didn’t do enough," Shaw told MUTV. "That was clear to see so we knew we had to bounce back.

"The Europa League was so important to us and we lost it ourselves but we want this competition too and this was a big game against a very good side.

"We had to give everything today and I’m really happy for the team and for us that we’re in another final, and a great game to play in.

"They [City clashes] are always very special games but for there to be a trophy to win at the end of it is obviously a massive incentive for us and what we want to achieve this season."

With Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane injured and Harry Maguire suspended, Shaw partnered Victor Lindelof to good effect at the back as United repelled the Seagulls in a tough encounter.

"When I play in the position, I really enjoy it – I like it a lot," said Shaw. "With the injuries and suspension to ‘H’, I knew I was going to be playing there today. 

"I spoke a lot with the manager over the last couple of days about what he wanted me to do and I’m happy to help the team, wherever I play, and today hopefully I did that."

Lindelof calmly converted the decisive spot-kick to book the Reds’ return to Wembley and a chance to complete a domestic cup double this season.

Shaw had been due to take a penalty himself had sudden death continued and he admitted: “I’d rather have been in the first five, to be honest!

“It’s never nice waiting and waiting, and knowing it’s your time soon. But I was confident that if I had to step up, I’d score. I was ready but, luckily enough, Victor put it away and won it for us.

“We’ve practised penalties a lot in training and Victor’s got beautiful technique, so, when he stepped up, I was confident he wouldn’t miss.”

Before thinking about that final against City, United face some key games in the Premier League run-in, and Shaw is calling on our brilliant fans to back the team’s top-four push.

"They were unbelievable, they helped us a lot and what’s important is that they stick with us," he said. 

"We still have a lot of games to go in the Premier League and it’s important we get in the top four this season, but for me they’ve been amazing all season. 

"Hopefully, the last push is coming and I know they’re definitely going to be here for that final game."