At the start of 2016, no one would have probably expected Wayne Rooney to make a massive record, United to beat Liverpool and probably move closer to the leaders. It has been a topsy-turvy ride for Manchester United right from the beginning game against Swansea and until Liverpool, they have failed to score many but they haven’t conceded either.
The next match for Manchester United is of course against Southampton. The South Coast club will visit Old Trafford with their heads held high and as usual the Ronald Koeman vs Louis Van Gaal drama will add to the much craved spice. Two managers who loath each other, two teams who just cannot fail to lose, well enough spice I reckon?
Manchester United will be without Marcos Rojo, Phil Jones, Luke Shaw, Tyler Blackett, Michael Carrick and Nick Powell.
While Ashley Young looked like he picked up a minor injury during the North-West derby against Liverpool, he and Bastian Schweinsteiger will be the players who may or may not feature against Southampton. Louis Van Gaal’s press conference may give us more information.
Manchester United – L L D W D W
Southampton – W L W W L L
While winning at Liverpool will be a morale booster for Manchester United, Southampton come under pressure to Old Trafford and I think they will be happy with a draw and will take the win gladly.
Expected Line-up of Manchester United ahead of Southampton game:-
GK- David De Gea
The man of the match against Liverpool. David De Gea has to be amongst the top 3 goalkeepers in the world. Stunning saves against Liverpool would have definitely impressed Van Gaal and who would want to keep such a show-stopper out of the game?
RB- Matteo Darmian
With Ashley Young being a doubt against Southampton, Matteo Darmian will take his much favoured position once again playing as RB. Although the lad is yet to adapt to English play, his performances have been solid enough and that has helped United to keep several clean sheets.
CB(s)- Chris Smalling and Daley Blind
Has to be the partnership no one expected. With Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones both staying out due to injuries, once again Daley Blind will pair up with Smalling and I have to say, they have impressed several out there. While Smalling is solid and brave, Blind is calculative and is the brain of the defence.
LB- Cameron Borthwick Jackson
The young starlet may get a full start. As Darmian is expected to play as a right back, there is no one except Cameron Borthwick Jackson who can play as a left back and for the young starlet, this is a great chance to impress.
CM(s)- Morgan Schneiderlin and Maroune Fellaini.
It has to be these two players who will be expected to start once again. While Morgan Schneiderlin is usually a silent figure on the pitch doing is job exceptionally well, Fellaini is the one who usually goes into rough challenges and is a figure who draws attention. While the lanky Belgian got an assist to his name against Liverpool, Schneiderlin will be once again expected to pitch in when needed and keep the Southampton attackers at bay.
RM- Juan Mata
After coming on as a substitute against Liverpool, Juan Mata put up a decent display. While many regard him as brains over pace, Mata may feature against Southampton after Jesse Lingard didn’t quite impress at Liverpool. Although this is a very close decision it really is up to Van Gaal.
CAM- Ander Herrera
Herrera might yet again take his most desired place as a Central Attacking Midfielder. Louis Van Gaal is unlikely to change this winning squad and Herrera might be given another chance to impress after a below par performance against the Reds.
LM- Anthony Martial
One of the brightest players at United who can get the play going and run at defences, Anthony Martial is one of the few names on the team sheet that won’t be exempted from featuring. Martial may be played as a LM until Memphis Depay comes on.
ST- Wayne Rooney
Captain. Leader. Legend. Wayne Rooney suddenly finds himself in some form and the goal against Liverpool might have given him a huge boost. While he already broke Thierry Henry’s record, Wayne Rooney will once again look to add to his tally and give the Old Trafford crowd something to cheer about as it has been now deemed as one of the most bored venue.
In the annals of football history, few names evoke as much reverence and admiration as…
Are you new to the world of football betting and would you like to take…
If you are into sports betting, staying ahead of the game is crucial. One way…
I have prepared some interesting and fun football facts for you, perfect for those who love the thrill of discovery almost as much as the excitement found at https://www.staycasino.com/. Like the unpredictable nature of casino games, these facts will surprise and intrigue you with unexpected twists and turns in the world of football. Here is the complete list of 40 interesting and fun facts about football. What are the most interesting facts about football? Football was invented in Italy, Messi is the highest-paid athlete, and the fastest a player has been sent off is 0 seconds! Stay ahead with these facts and impress with your knowledge. This collection contains many football facts that will surprise you. Tell your friends new facts they don't know. Interesting Facts About Football Every football fan should know these facts. You can also surprise your children with what they don't know! When was football invented? Modern football originated from the Florentine game of Calcio Fiorentino, played in the 14th …
Real Sociedad returns to the midst of Europe's elite clubs in the UEFA Champions League…