The Saints and the Devils will lock horns once again as Southampton host Manchester United. Both teams having something to prove will only add even more fuel in fiery rivalry between the two teams, making it a game you cannot miss.
It will be Koeman vs. Van Gaal once again, with the former having to prove he is no one-season wonder coach in the Premier League. With only one win in five games, questions are being asked whether the Saints can once again challenge the top teams. Koeman’s side are yet to find form but regaining the defensive rigidness has been the theme of their last three games – not conceding goals in any of them. More is wanted in the final third, but a win against United can set them on path to prove once again many wrong.
United were all over the place against PSV in their first league Champions League group game. The only thing to be remembered from the game was sadly Luke Shaw’s injury.
The team will definitely look to bounce back in a morale boosting fashion against Shaw’s old team. It will be a homecoming for one more of Saint’s ex-players – Morgan Schneiderlin. He started his United career rather well, yet very indifferent with a lot to prove. The same could be said for the whole team and after Arsenal’s loss to Chelsea, United need to win to keep the distance between them and last year’s champions.
Team News
Sadio Mane, who was linked with a move to Old Trafford, could return to Southampton’s wing after dropping to the bench for the draw at Albion last week.
Jordy Clasie and Ryan Bertrand are progressing well from injury, but the pair remain a couple of weeks away from selection.
Daley Blind could come in at left-back for the stricken Shaw. Rojo is also a candidate for the role with Blind remaining in the centre.
Captain and striker Wayne Rooney will return after missing last two games with a hamstring injury.
Predicted Line Ups:
Southampton(4-3-3):
Stekelenburg; Soares, Fonte, van Dijk, Targett; Wanyama, Ward-Prowse, S. Davis, Mane, Tadic; Pelle
Manchester United (4-2-3-1):
De Gea; Darmian, Smalling, Rojo, Blind; Carrick, Schneiderlin; Young,Mata,Memphis; Rooney
Last game: Manchester United-Southampton 0:1 11 January 2015
United could not put their chances away as Southampton won a smash and grab match to solidify their Europe qualification hopes.
With both teams having to prove something it might be more interesting game this time around.
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