Manchester United travel to Southampton on Saturday seeking to extend their reign but the Red Devils won’t have it easy, for the Saints have emerged as a well-drilled side since the start of the Premier League season.
Jose Mourinho’s men, tied on points and goal difference with arch-rivals Manchester City, have, barring a 2-2 draw at Stoke, largely demolished their opponents so far and will be looking to clinch three points.
However, Mauricio Pellegrino has begun his tenure as Saints’ manager on an auspicious note and will seek to right their poor home record against United on Saturday.
Southampton
Virgil van Djik is in contention to start for the first time since his transfer saga erupted in the summer and the Dutch centre-back is a much-needed addition, for United’s forwards are in terrific nick.
Without van Djik, the Saints have done decently at the back, keeping three clean sheets in five games but it’s their misfiring attack that is a cause of concern.
Manolo Gabbiadini, who had a memorable League Cup outing against United not so long ago, has scored just once this season as has Charlie Austin.
Considering United have only been breached in one game, Pellegrino has some strategising to do if the home side are to score.
Their midfield, marshalled by captain Steven Davis, keeps things ticking but unless their forwards start scoring, it will be difficult to look beyond a United win on Saturday.
Talking Corner: It’s great if you can create that hostile atmosphere. It gives the home team such a backing as well, and really pushes them on-Southampton captain Steven Davis (Southern Daily Echo)
Injury concerns: Matt Target (ankle) and Virgil van Djik (match fitness)
Suspension Alert: None
Manchester United
Despite missing star midfielder Paul Pogba, United are steamrolling all that come in front of them and no team seems to be able to keep their £75 million man Romelu Lukaku quiet.
The burly Belgian has been in an unstoppable mood(five goals in as many games), helped by the unassuming but deadly Henrikh Mkhitaryan (five assists). But of late, it has been the late introduction of Marcus Rashford/Anthony Martial that has been enabling them to victory.
The speedy forwards are competing for the final starting spot on the left flank and if one starts, the other almost always comes on and makes the difference in the closing stages against tired legs.
Ander Herrera started in their mid-week win over Burton Albion (Caraboao Cup), but the lanky duo of Nemanja Matic and Marouane Fellaini will almost certainly continue their central midfield partnership in Pogba’s absence.
Heavy favourites to continue their four-game winning streak (all competitions) on Saturday, United will look to dominate from the off and Southampton will have to deliver a special performance if they are to stymie their illustrious opponents.
Talking Corner: I think everybody in attacking areas gave a good dynamic to the team and especially happiness. We look happy playing football in this moment and that’s what I want-Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho
Injury concerns: Paul Pogba (Hamstring), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (knee) and Marcos Rojo (knee)
Suspension Alert: None