Manchester United trail city rivals Manchester City by five points after the first five Premier League games, but despite their midweek Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven, things are looking up for the side from Old Trafford. The defence has looked settled and organized, the midfield has allowed them to seize control of games, and the attack will only improve throughout the course of the season.
While Luke Shaw’s double leg fracture is a massive blow, not just for United but for the young Englishman who was looking the part this season both in United and England colors, Wayne Rooney’s return from injury will strengthen United in an attacking sense. United travel to St. Mary’s on Sunday looking to pick up three points against a strong Southampton side who will be tough to beat at home.
Let’s take a look at the Manchester United team that could line up against Southampton on Sunday.
Goalkeeper – David De Gea
The Spanish shotstopper looked in top form against Liverpool last weekend and United would need their first choice keeper to be in top form if they are to mount a serious challenge for the title.
Defence – Darmian, Smalling, Rojo, Blind.
Matteo Darmian had a horror time in Eindhoven and the Italian would be keen to put this game behind him. Marcos Rojo will fill in for the injured Luke Shaw, but a positional change could happen with Daley Blind moving to left back.
Midfield – Carrick, Schweinsteiger, Mata, Herrera, Depay.
Bastian Schweinsteiger could be rested for Morgan Schneiderlin after being involved heavily in recent games, but Michael Carrick is set to come back into the lineup after his stellar performance against Liverpool.
Juan Mata was a peripheral figure through the middle against PSV, and would be looking to make amends on Sunday as he starts on the right wing. Ander Herrera lacks the vision of a No.10, but makes up for it with his agility and work rate.
Memphis Depay will once again be the key for United as he looks to finally deliver the goods in the Premier League after his sensational midweek goal.
Striker – Wayne Rooney
Anthony Martial has looked sharp, but the return of Wayne Rooney is likely to drop the Frenchman to the bench. Rooney has not been at his very best so far, but will add that bite and quality to United’s front line.