Manchester United will be buoyed by their terrific performance in Monday’s 2-1 to Liverpool, but will know Southampton will pose a different type of test.
Erik ten Hag’s side are expected to have more of the ball and pressurise the final third with the Saints’ backline sitting much deeper. United are favourites to take the three points despite not winning on the road in the league since February’s 4-2 win over Leeds.
However, there will be a big difference on Saturday - they will have a world-class defensive midfielder in their ranks. Casemiro is set to make his debut at St Mary’s and Ten Hag has declared him fit for the contest.
READ MORE: United confirm Casemiro shirt number
It’s not so positive news for Anthony Martial who is unfit despite playing 45 minutes against Liverpool, during which he provided the assist for Marcus Rashford’s winner. Rashford got his goal after moving out wide to the left and he could start the game against Southampton on the flank with Jadon Sancho on the right.
With just six days until deadline day, Cristiano Ronaldo is still a United player and could make a return. The team markedly improved when he was on the bench on Monday when Rashford was chosen to lead the line.
However, United are more likely to need a poacher against Southampton, rather than a man who can sprint behind the defence, which is why Ronaldo may come in for Anthony Elanga, who was replaced at half-time against Liverpool.
Meanwhile, Casemiro’s top-tier quality may allow Christian Eriksen to join Bruno Fernandes up the pitch in a 4-1-2-3 formation. Ten Hag would be a harsh critic to alter the backline that kept Liverpool at bay for so long.
Therefore, Diogo Dalot, Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia could provide the shield for David de Gea in goal with captain Harry Maguire left out again.
Predicted starting XI vs Southampton: De Gea; Dalot, Varane, Martinez, Malacia; Casemiro; Eriksen, Fernandes; Rashford, Ronaldo, Sancho.
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