Southampton vs Manchester United preview: Back to winning ways?

Manchester United are headed to St. Mary’s this Saturday to take on Southampton in the early kick-off. The last time the two sides met at this venue Erik ten Hag was settling into the role. It was the Dutchman’s first away win in charge of the Manchester outfit.

Erik ten Hag’s side have recorded one win in the last eight away league fixtures. The victory came in February after a difficult 2-1 win over Luton Town. The most recent away defeat came at Brighton two weeks ago. The pendulum could have swung the other way should Joshua Zirkzee’s knee not strike the ball.

Team news

The club has confirmed that Luke Shaw and Rasmus Hojlund will miss out despite “progressing very well”.

They are sidelined alongside the usual suspects in Leny Yoro, Victor Lindelof, Tyrell Malacia and Mason Mount.

Pressure will mount on the former Ajax when choosing who starts in the middle of the park. Casemiro was heavily criticised during the 3-0 defeat at Liverpool as he was swapped at the break.

Manuel Ugarte has got supporters buzzing with excitement after impressive appearances for the Uruguayan national team. He is expected to feature in some capacity although it remains unknown if he will start.

Marcus Rashford will be expected to start on Saturday as he hopes to regain form once seen under ten Hag. The Wythenshawe-born winger will need to be in fine fettle as the club has a run of important fixtures.

Important month ahead

Off the back of the international break, the 20-time champions are entering an important stage of the season. Erik ten Hag’s side have another six fixtures before the next break including trips to Porto and Aston Villa.

Ange Postecoglu’s Tottenham head to the Theatre of Dreams in over a fortnight and it will be another telling fixture.

The under-pressure boss will aim to fire on all cylinders for as long as possible. The Europa League and Carabao Cup get underway for the club in the coming weeks.

There are sure to be frenzies in the coming weeks should Manchester United drop points. Critics will be seeking every avenue to get on the back of the manager to mount the pressure on him.

Erik ten Hag will have one guarantee – the backing of the following support as this team will need it in these times of difficulty.