United are set to be tested heavily against a highflying Southampton. Southampton collected three points against Arsenal rather surprisingly and thus retained control of the final UEFA Champions League spot. The team which usually takes that spot is Arsenal. Considering that Tottenham slipped up and Arsenal are likely to drop points against Stoke, a win becomes more important for them.
Southampton’s opponent though sits higher than them in the table. United is only a point better off though. United’s topsy-turvy campaign has continued its unpredictability; their last six matches has resulted in three draws and three wins. Radamel Falcao had to rescue the Red Devils following a quick goal from Ryan Shawcross in their previous encounter against Stoke. In the Sir Alex Ferguson era, United used to win most matches after going behind to early goals. Under Louis Van Gaal, this has not exactly transpired. However, the squad has changed a lot since the days of Sir Alex.
Also, United’s main goal should perhaps be to hold on to a top for spot. Looking ahead, they will see a ten point gap to Manchester City in second (although that could be down to seven following this match) and a twelve point gap (could be down to nine afterwards). While those gaps are not insurmountable, they are not very easy to shorten considering the caliber of the two teams and considering that United is in a period of transition. Marcos Rojo, Ashley Young and Rafael are out for United. Jake Hesketh, Jay Rodriguez, Sam Gallagher, Jack Cork and Sadio Mane are out for Southampton.
Can Southampton spring yet another surprise? Interested in learning how you can watch the 2014-15 English Premier League? Check out our EPL Multi-Platform Broadcast Guide.
Manchester United vs. Southampton team sheets
Manchester United starting XI: De Gea, Valencia, Jones, Smalling, Shaw, Blind, Carrick, Rooney, Mata, Di Maria, van Persie
Southampton starting XI: Forster; Clyne, Fonte, Alderweireld, Bertrand; Davis, Schneiderlin, Wanyama, Ward-Prowse, Elia, Pellè
Manchester United bench: Evans, Herrera, Fellaini, Valdes, McNair, Blackett, Wilson
Southampton bench: K. Davis, Gardos, Long, Tadić, Isgrove, Reed, Targett
Match details, result and original broadcast info
This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
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