The Daily Star Ireland
Manchester United has failed to live up to expectations this season, despite having a strong squad and heavy financial investment. The team currently lies 13th in the Premier League, a massive 11 points from sixth place, which will more or less rule out any chances of European qualification. Since the arrival of manager Ruben Amorim, the team has failed to find its rhythm and is without a win in the last four league games.
The recent results have seen them suffer comprehensive losses to Bournemouth 3-0, Wolverhampton 2-0, and Newcastle 2-0. Nevertheless, they did show some grit in the last outing by coming away with a 2-2 draw against league leaders Liverpool. Last week, Manchester United took on Arsenal in the FA Cup. In the Europa League, the Red Devils currently lie 7th and will be seeking a top finish to ensure a direct route to the round of 16.
The return to the Premier League has been extremely tough for Southampton, who are currently bottom of the log with six points from 20 matches. The promoted side is a massive 10 points away from safety, and slim are the chances they get out of this mess. Without a win in the last 10 league games, the Saints have managed only two draws and eight defeats. Other recent results include drawing Fulham 0-0, and losing to West Ham 1-0, Crystal Palace 2-1 and Brentford 5-0. Last weekend Southampton welcomed Swansea to the south coast in the FA Cup.
Manchester United will again miss a few of their key players such as defenders Shaw and Lindelof and midfielder Mount who are continuing from injuries, but it’s highly unlikely for Marcus Rashford not to be present. The manager, Ruben Amorim, can count once again on influential players such as Diallo with three goals and six assists, and Bruno Fernandes with four goals and six assists. Still, forwards Zirkzee and Hojlund with three and two league goals respectively haven’t made their impact so far.
While Saints face their fair share of problems with injuries to the senior central defender Stephens, backup goalkeeper Bazunu, and forward Stewart, midfielders Downes and Smallbone are doubtful. The silver lining is that Matheus Fernandes returns from suspension. Although Southampton recently signed some players, such as left-back Welington from Sao Paulo and youngster defender Kayi Sanda from Valenciennes, it is still the league’s weakest in attack and 19th in defense.
Prediction
Manchester United has blown hot and cold at home this season, managing to win only three of their eight matches at Old Trafford. However, the dismal away form of Southampton, which has picked up only two points from 15 games, makes them an ideal opponent for United to regain confidence.
Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Southampton
