Southampton are the next in line to put an end to Manchester United’s impressive run of form – unbeaten in 17 in all competitions, and five wins in their last five league matches. Southampton are unbeaten in three, including defeating second-place Manchester City 1-0 last Sunday, so there is potential for an upset here at Old Trafford, but it would be a surprise.
Man United are soaring up the table, particularly thanks to Bruno Fernandes and Mason Greenwood, who have been phenomenal since the lockdown. A win on Monday night would put them in third place, a position which has looked unlikely in recent months.
Meanwhile, the Saints do not have much to play for as they are free from relegation and it is near-impossible to reach Europa League qualification. However, Danny Ings (19) has a great chance this season to take the golden boot home, currently four goals off Jamie Vardy (23), which may fire him up.
At St Mary’s Stadium in August, this matchup ended in a 1-1 draw, with goals coming from Daniel James for the Reds and Jannik Vestergaard for the Saints, with Kevin Danso sent off after picking up two yellows. This return fixture is likely to see more goals, particularly considering the form of United’s attack.
Team News
Man United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has named an unchanged side in the last 4 games, so it is looking like most of the team will remain the same. There may be a change in the midfield, with Scott McTominay possibly replacing Nemanja Matic, while Fernandes and Pogba have cemented their spots on the team sheet after truly inspiring performances recently.
Defender Jannik Vestergaard looks likely to return to the side after a muscle injury, and no new injury troubles have arisen, much to the delight of Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl. Despite this, his side will have to be resolute to null United’s momentum, overcoming any fatigue which is a major problem during this intense period.
My verdict
Having watched the recent displays of Man United, I am sure they will increase their run of form and sit third in the league after Monday night’s clash. If Fernandes, Pogba and Greenwood are on form, Southampton could have a tough time, and with little to play for I can't see Hasenhuttl’s side causing an upset.
Man United 3-1 Southampton
Match Preview written by Seb Rowland.