Manchester United saw their rivals City beat Southampton conformably last weekend on their own patch. But having suffered two defeats in a row The Saints will be be going full throttle against United on Monday evening (kick off 2000 local time).
Any team leaving St.Mary’s with three points this season will have to consider themselves very fortunate indeed. Not many will do it and, while many expect Southampton to be something of a flash in the pan in this campaign, they have real quality and power in their side. They look as if they can sustain a challenge at the top end of the table this season despite losing to two of the big boys of late.
But they will be seriously disadvantaged by the absences of three key man for the big game. Morgan Schneiderlin isn’t expected back until 20th December after suffering a groin injury. He’s having an even better season than last time out and is such a composed influence in the midfield – as well as more of a goal threat of late.
Defensive rock Toby Alderweireld is close to a return but probably won’t make it in time for the Manchester United game. And Jack Cork is also crocked with an ankle injury which should keep him out for the rest of the year.
Manchester United need this result to go their way if they want to capitalise on Chelsea dropping points at the weekend. Southampton’s squad is strong but these three are big misses.
Evans Simiyu
Dec 8, 2014 at 5:58 am
i like that