Mikael Silvestre believes that Luke Shaw has "got all the attributes" to become a top-level player at Manchester United.
The 19-year-old completed a £30m move from Southampton in the summer, but his short United career has been blighted by a number of injuries so far.
However, Silvestre has said that Shaw "will get better" over the coming years and months once he returns to the field.
"His injury was unfortunate, but it's a long season and hopefully he will be able to come back and carry on where he left off," Silvestre told Sky Sports News.
"There's a lot of pressure on his shoulders, but he has got the ability and he has the right support.
"This will be a test of character for him, but I think he has got all the attributes. He's part of one of the best teams in the world and one of the best clubs in the world and I can see only positives. As time goes by he will get better."
Silvestre made 249 appearances in a nine-year spell at the Red Devils.
