Manchester United progress to quarter-finals

Spaniard Juan Mata netted the Red Devils’ second in added time at the end of the first half, either side of a Chris Smalling opener and a Jesse Lingard clincher. 

Van Gaal, with speculation still rife that he is to be replaced by ex-Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, knew defeat by a Shrewsbury side lying 21st in their division was unthinkable - and possibly terminal for his employment prospects. 

United, instead, gave their manager a comfortable night as they strolled into the last eight, with Chris Smalling’s scuffed shot and Juan Mata’s smart free-kick giving them a half-time advantage they never threatened to surrender. 

Shrewsbury barely gave United an anxious moment - although Abu Ogogo had an effort scrambled off the line by United substitute Joe Riley as well as heading wide late on - and victory was wrapped up when Jesse Lingard turned in Ander Herrera’s shot just after the hour. 

United’s injury problems worsened when substitute Will Keane came off leaving the visitors to play the last 14 minutes with 10 men. 

Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal said: “I was very pleased. We have played 70 minutes fantastic, in a professional way, creating chances and scoring goals. After 70 we were with 10 and it was more difficult. It [injuries] was unbelievably unlucky again. The players were very committed to perform and you see what is the consequence.”