We take a look at how Manchester United could take to the field on Saturday as Jose Mourinho & co. gear up for the visit of Southampton.
Manchester United’s season has begun to unravel to an extent in the last few weeks. A loss in the Manchester derby has been followed by nervy displays, the latest being a battling 2-2 draw against Burnley. Jose Mourinho will hope for his team to end the year on a positive note, though, as they entertain Southampton on Saturday.
David De Gea is an automatic selection at the back. But, the back four might see some changes. Luke Shaw is unlikely to be handed a start ahead of Ashley Young, with the veteran putting in a great shift against the Clarets. Victor Lindelof should continue to be deployed as the right-back in Antonio Valencia’s absence.
Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones should be the pairing at the back. In midfield, Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba select themselves. Jesse Lingard’s performances throughout December has been a delight and the academy ace is set for another start on Saturday.
The bone of contention will be whether Anthony Martial is fit enough to return to the starting lineup, which could see Marcus Rashford give way. The boss though, said that he does not expect any injured players to return for the last match of the calendar year, which could see Rashford retain his place despite a couple of subdued displays.
Zlatan started in the number 10 role for United but looked lacklustre and is unlikely to be handed another start in the said position.
Juan Mata’s recent form makes him the best contender for the number 10 role. Jose Mourinho has also all but confirmed Romelu Lukaku’s inclusion in the starting lineup for Saturday. The manager iterated in the pre-match conference that he cannot hand the Belgian a rest despite the player being ever-present for the Red Devils in the Premier League season so far.
“No, I can’t [give Lukaku a rest]. Now, I say 20 matches in the Premier League, 90 minutes [for Romelu]. I think for a striker, for any player, [it] is absolutely incredible. But, for a striker in the Premier League, to play 20 matches, 90 minutes, I have to be very grateful for his personality and for his character. He’s been unlucky in our box in recent matches.”
