Manchester United are coming off two impressive performances in the past seven days. They thrashed Everton to the tone of a 4-0 win, and dispatched Burton Albion 4-1 in the Carabao Cup. There is no question The Red Devils are on a good run of form right now. And with the idea of maintaining the top position in the English Premier League standings, Manchester United will take on Southampton this Saturday. Kick-off is scheduled at 3 PM BST, and Craig Pawson will be the referee.
The Opponent
Southampton have not enjoyed their best form this season. They sit ninth in the standings thanks to two wins, two draws and one defeat, and are coming off an away win at struggling Crystal Palace last time out in the Premier League. However, it is safe to say that The Saints just haven’t been good at home this term. They register one win, one draw and two losses in their home ground across all competitions.
In terms of team news, The Saints are almost at full strength. The lone doubt is the presence of Charlie Austin, as the striker is doubtful with a minor injury. And Virgil van Dijk should see some action, as the classy centre-back returned to the side following his frustrated move to Liverpool during the summer.
The Venue
The match will be played at St. Mary’s Stadium. The last time United played there last season, the game finished with a scoreless draw.
Things have been positive for United of late when visiting this stadium, however. The Red Devils are currently riding an eight-game undefeated streak when visiting Southampton.
Team News
Mourinho said he has “no idea” when Paul Pogba is going to be back, so it is safe to assume the French international is not going to feature in this contest. Axel Tuanzebe remains out with a minor knock. Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic remain on the sidelines since both are rehabbing from long-term knee injuries.
On a positive note, however, both Ashley Young and Luke Shaw should be close to full fitness since they have featured for the team in the past few matches. And while Marcus Rashford came off with a minor knock in the game against Burton, he should be available as well.
Manchester United’s Predicted Starting XI
Mourinho rotated the side during Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match against Burton Albion in an effort to keep the team fresh and motivated. But matches away at Southampton are usually quite tough, so it is entirely possible that Mourinho fields a team that is close to the Best XI we have seen in the past few games. It could look something like this:
GK: David De Gea
RB: Antonio Valencia
CB: Eric Bailly
CB: Phil Jones
LB: Daley Blind
CM: Nemanja Matic
CM: Marouane Fellaini
RW: Juan Mata
AM: Henrikh Mkhitaryan
LW: Marcus Rashford
ST: Romelu Lukaku
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