Manchester United will be looking for revenge in their next Premier League game, after suffering a humiliating defeat against bitter rivals Liverpool. Can they get back on track in the Premier League with a win over relegation-threatened Southampton?
Their 4-1 win over former Man City boss Manuel Pellegrini’s Real Betis certainly brought some confidence back into the team with Bruno Fernandes somewhat atoning for his poor play and petulance in the Liverpool drubbing. United were a different animal especially in the 2nd half as they went into the break tied at 1-1 after Marcus Rashford had given them the dream start with a 6th-minute goal before Betis tied it up in the 32nd minute through Perez.
The 2nd half saw United bounce back as Bruno was everywhere as Antony scored early in the 2nd half on 52 minutes before the United captain scored with a bullet header on 58 minutes then Weghorst added more insurance with an 82nd minute goal to really put the game to bed. There were no more serious injuries that came out of the Europa League match which is good news.
The Red Devils do have three players who are ruled out for the game against the Saints – they are Donny Van De Beek, former Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen and Anthony Martial. As well as this, January loan signing Marcel Sabitzer is also a major doubt and will likely miss out on the matchday squad.
In their PL last game, United were trounced 7-0 by Liverpool – like you needed reminding. It was a thoroughly dismal display from United, who looked fatigued, disorganised and worst of all, uninterested. The team were rightfully lambasted by the fans after the final whistle – Liverpool’s goals were scored by Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, Darwin Nunez and Roberto Firmino.
Meanwhile, Southampton picked up a vital win in their last game, as they took on Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester City. It was a spirited, backs-to-the-wall performance from the Saints – despite missing a penalty, they still took the victory after a goal from Carlos Alcaraz.
The last time the two teams met, all the way back in August, United picked up a narrow 1-0 win – despite not being at their best. Southampton had more shots, but the Red Devils were more clinical – the only goal of the game was scored by Bruno Fernandes.
A win could be just what United need to wash the taste of the Liverpool defeat out of their mouths but they will already be feeling a whole lot better after Thursday night’s solid performance. However, Southampton are fighting for their Premier League lives – they won’t be pushovers. Can United re-enter the title chase and catch up to Arsenal and Manchester City?
It’s not looking very likely at this stage given their injuries and the form of the top two.