Luke Shaw England
Southampton left-back Luke Shaw during a training session for England, 3 March. Reuters

The additions of world-class players Radamel Falcao and Angel di Maria have not only strengthened Manchester United personnel-wise, but it is also helping the likes of Luke Shaw get to that level.

England under-21 boss Gareth Southgate believes that having to work with Di Maria and Falcao day-in and day-out will help the Saints Academy product in conditioning his mind to reach such status one day.

"I think what he now has is a recognition of what 'world class' looks like," said Southgate.

"He might have had an idea of what he thought it was before but training at Manchester United with the likes of Radamel Falcao and Angel Di Maria has given him a full understanding of the concept now."

"He would have known there was a level, but now he knows there is a level above that."

The development is also helping Southgate's cause as a mentor, as the 19-year-old is able to share his invaluable experiences to his fellow nationals.

"He was able to share those stories among our lads in the U21s because all players at times in their careers think they are nearly there - and then you discover you still have a bit of a way to go.

"You continually have to strive to be better than you are and Luke realises that now."

For more football news, follow IBTimes Sport on Twitter.