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Manchester United vs Southampton: Preview and Prediction

By Robert Molnar

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Manchester United vs Southampton. As the second half of the Premier League season gets under way, our match of the week is a top four battle. Being described as David v. Goliath, Premier League giants Manchester United look to continue their resurgence as they host the high flying Southampton on Sunday.

After a disastrous campaign last season, Manchester United have rebounded from a slow start, to claw their way back into the top four. Under the leadership of Louis Van Gaal, the Red Devils have climbed to third in the table, with a possible chance at fighting for the title. In fact, United have not lost a Premier League match since the second of November.

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With the transfer window open, the season only looks to improve for Van Gaal’s men. Should United acquire some of the clubs main targets, a run at the league title may not be as farfetched as many originally thought. With Wayne Rooney, David de Gea, Radamel Falcao and others leading the way, taking three points from Old Trafford will be near impossible.

If there is a side that may fancy taking those points however, it could be the Saints. Having won three of their last four Premier League matches, Southampton look set to possibly pull a major upset. With top class wins over Arsenal and Everton to go along with drawing league leaders Chelsea, Ronald Koeman’s side will try to continue their impressive run.

With Morgan Schneiderlin returning from his suspension, look for the French star to play a major role if Southampton are to take anything from this match. Another one United must pay close attention to is James Ward-Prowse. With Sadio Mane out due to injury, the Southampton midfield will need to play at a high level to cover his absence. The home grown Ward-Prowse will especially be needed if Southampton are to take three points.

Key Stats

  • Southampton last defeated Manchester United in 2003, but have not won at Old Trafford since 1992.
  • Manchester United have failed to win three of their last four matches.
  • Southampton only have two wins in their last sixteen matches against the big five clubs (Liverpool, Chelsea, United, City, and Arsenal).

Players to Watch

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Southampton will be looking for a strong performance from star midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin. With the French international expected to remain with the club for the remainder of the season, he can now focus on playing foot. For Schneiderlin, the better he performs this season, the better his chance of moving to a bigger club.

Also looking to play a huge part in the match will be Wayne Rooney. The Manchester United captain will need a strong performance if the side are to breakdown the strong Southampton defense. With Southampton being top in the league for shutouts this season, the Red Devils will need a strong attack to break them down. Wayne Rooney will be responsible for that, if he plays well, Manchester United should win this match.

Both squads will be looking for a win in this match. For both, winning is a must if they are to stay in the running for an outside shot at the Premier League title. However, only one side can win, trying too hard to do so could result in the opposite result, and an early end to the loser’s title dreams.

Prediction

Manchester United – 2, Southampton – 1

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