Here is everything you need to know ahead of Man United’s return to Premier League action against the Saints.
Team News
Manchester United remain without several key players for Thursday’s clash against Southampton. Luke Shaw (calf), Mason Mount (thigh), Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans (both unspecified injuries) are all sidelined. Marcus Rashford’s availability is uncertain as speculation about his future continues.
Diogo Dalot’s suspension, following his red card against Arsenal, paves the way for Tyrell Malacia to return at left wing-back, while either Noussair Mazraoui or Amad Diallo could feature on the right. Leny Yoro is vying for a central defensive spot alongside Matthijs de Ligt or Harry Maguire. Up front, Joshua Zirkzee may replace Rasmus Højlund in Amorim’s starting XI.
Southampton also face fitness concerns. Jack Stephens, Juan Larios (both unspecified), and Ross Stewart (hamstring) remain out. Manager Juric is hopeful that Flynn Downes will return from a thigh injury that has sidelined him for three games. Will Smallbone is in contention after recovering from injury, while goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is back in the squad following an Achilles problem.
Midfielder Matheus Fernandes is available after serving a suspension, and Man United-linked Dibling is expected to start in attack alongside Kamaldeen Sulemana. One of Paul Onuachu, Cameron Archer, or Adam Armstrong will likely complete Southampton’s front line.
Form Guide
Both Manchester United and Southampton aim to build on their FA Cup successes as they prepare for Thursday’s Premier League clash at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils secured a 3-0 win over Southampton in their previous meeting last September. More recently, United fought back to draw 2-2 with league leaders Liverpool at Anfield before eliminating Arsenal in a thrilling penalty shootout during the FA Cup third round. Ruben Amorim praised his team’s fighting spirit in the win and has called for similar determination to help improve their league standing, with United currently languishing in 13th after just one win in their last seven matches.
Southampton’s return to the Premier League has been a nightmare. With only six points and a goal difference of -32 after 20 matches, they have officially become the worst team in Premier League history at this stage of the season. Manager Juric has suffered three straight defeats since replacing Russell Martin, including a humiliating 5-0 home loss to Brentford. The Saints have endured 16 losses this season, with eight of those by margins of two or more goals.
Predicted Outcome
Both teams have struggled defensively this season, conceding a combined 72 goals in the league. United have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last seven matches, while Southampton have leaked goals in 18 of their 20 fixtures. Given their defensive frailties, an open game with chances at both ends is expected. However, Manchester United’s superior quality and home advantage should see them edge past the Saints, securing their first Premier League win at Old Trafford since December 1. We predict Manchester United will beat Southampton 2-0.
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