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Manchester United return to action this weekend as they travel to Southampton for Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off in the Premier League.
Erik ten Hag is under pressure in the early stages of the new season after picking up just three points from the opening three games.
Southampton have also suffered in the early rounds, losing each of their three fixtures upon their return to England’s top flight.
United will be favourites to win the game against their newly-promoted opposition but will have to be wary of Russell Martin’s side in front of home support.
The first game back after an international break typically throws up some unexpected results and coupled with the early kick-off, United will need to be at it from the off at St. Mary’s.
Ten Hag will name a powerful looking lineup on Saturday and that should be enough to see of a Southampton side that will try to play football on the deck.
Manuel Ugarte is in line for his debut and with Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes expected to partner him in the middle of the park, the trio’s quality will allow United to progress into threatening areas.
As much as Ugarte in adept at breaking up opposition attacks, he can also play. Transferring the ball quickly into Fernandes and forward players will be key on Saturday, something that didn’t happen against Liverpool in United’s last league game.
United’s sharpness in midfield was sadly lacking against Arne Slot’s side and ensuring an upturn in quality with the ball in tight areas is vital moving forward.
Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez are expected to continue their partnership at the back and the tenacity and quality they both possess on the ball will also allow United to keep possession.
The former Ajax pair should forge an excellent relationship throughout the course of the season and will see the weekend’s game as a perfect chance to register their first clean sheet together with Southampton scoring just once so far this season.
That being said, having missed more big chances than anyone in the league in the first three games, United’s profligacy in front of goal also needs improving.
Joshua Zirkzee endured a tough afternoon in United’s last league game but will be hoping to add to his debut strike.
United’s wide men have struggled in the opening exchanges but with Ugarted in the side, transitions should become more regular and therefore give the attacking players more 1v1 opportunities.
If United can isolate Southampton’s full-backs, there is enough quality in Ten Hag’s side to punish the fragile Saints and chalk up an important three points for the Dutchman, who knows he cannot afford another slip up this early on in the campaign.
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2024-09-13 12:40:02
