Manchester United are seeking to continue their upward trajectory when they host Southampton at Old Trafford on Thursday. Following an impressive display in a draw against Liverpool and a thrilling FA Cup victory over Arsenal, United are looking to build momentum against the Premier League’s basement boys.
However, despite their recent successes, United are wary of complacency, particularly given their poor home form. The Red Devils have lost their last three home league games, and captain Bruno Fernandes has challenged his teammates to show the same desire against less illustrious opponents. Manager Ruben Amorim will also be looking to rotate his squad, given the fatigue factor following the grueling 120-minute FA Cup showdown against Arsenal.
Southampton, meanwhile, are desperate to arrest their slide down the table. Ivan Jurić’s first victory in the Saints dugout came via a 3-0 success over Swansea in the FA Cup, but three consecutive losses in the Premier League have left the club ten points from safety. The Saints’ astonishing 17-match winless away run in the Premier League is a major concern, and Jurić will be hoping to inspire his team to a much-needed victory.
Despite their poor away form, Southampton have a relatively decent record at Old Trafford, having lost just three of their last ten visits (W2, D5). United, however, are unbeaten against the Saints in their last 15 Premier League meetings (W7, D8), and will be looking to extend that run.
Players to watch include United winger Amad Diallo, who stands on the verge of history as he could become the first African player to directly contribute to ten Premier League goals in a season for the Red Devils. Tyler Dibling, meanwhile, will be looking to build on his fine form for Southampton.
The match promises to be an intriguing encounter, with United seeking to build momentum and Southampton desperate to climb out of the relegation zone. With both teams having something to prove, it’s likely to be a closely contested and entertaining match.
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