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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
After seeing all the excitement of an opening-day win over rivals Chelsea fade into a distant memory, Manchester United head to Southampton on Saturday with a lot to prove.
The Red Devils’ creditable 1-1 draw away at Wolves was overshadowed by the infamous penalty saga, and all sense of a good start to the Premier League campaign firmly disappeared with an embarrassing 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace.
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Heading into the game at St. Mary’s, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer must contend with some serious injury concerns as he looks to kick his side back into gear. Keeping that in mind, here is a look at how United could potentially line up against the Saints.
Despite a costly error in the dying stages last time out, David de Gea will remain United’s number one. In front of him, the majority of the back-four should stay the same, but an injury to Luke Shaw will bring about an enforced change. The much-maligned Ashley Young came on as a substitute for the England international at Old Trafford last weekend, and barring an incredible show of faith in teenager Brandon Williams, will likely get the nod at St Mary’s.
For all the drama surrounding Paul Pogba at the moment, the Frenchman has been one of United’s better players in the opening stages of the campaign. He was imperious against Chelsea, and despite his penalty miss at Molineux, came out of the game with some credit. Alongside him, Scott McTominay should keep out Brazil international Fred once more.
Further forward is where Solskjaer could really ring the changes. Jesse Lingard has become a laughing stock for his lack of contribution to the side, and his anonymous performances could finally see him dropped. That decision could see veteran play-maker Juan Mata enter the fray from the start, whilst Anthony Martial’s injury will force a further reshuffle.
Marcus Rashford will surely get the nod to play as the side’s number nine, whilst Daniel James may switch over from the right-flank to a more familiar role on the left-hand side. As such, it could result in just a second league start for 17-year-old prodigy Mason Greenwood. The teenager stole the show on the club’s pre-season tour this summer and has already made himself a firm fan favourite.
If Solskjaer does make these popular changes for the clash on Saturday, there will be no doubting the travelling faithful will feel confident of getting a positive result.
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