Anfield was left shocked last weekend when their rivals came to their park and squeaked out a win late in the second half. Manchester United now return to the friendly confines of Old Trafford to host a Southampton team that just destroyed West Brom 3-0.
Louis van Gaal’s midfield, which has been injury ridden for much of the season, has been left exposed during the last few matches. Reports suggest that United have fixed this problem with a new signing that will help bolster their squad and ensure that they finish top four before the end of the season.
Manchester United’s strongest possible squad this weekend:
Goalkeeper
David de Gea was outstanding last weekend, making three crucial saves in the second half that earned him man-of-the-match in the win. The Spaniard remains the clubs most important piece and will most certainly be in goal this weekend.
Defence
Right Back: Matteo Darmian- Started out at left back in the match against Liverpool, but was switched to his preferred right back role and he flourished in the second half. Ashley Young remains an option off the bench and can a bit more attacking if needed.
Center Backs: Chris Smalling and Daley Blind- Blind was very tidy in the back against Liverpool and if it weren’t for de Gea’s amazing saves, Smalling may have been man-of-the-match. Smalling appears to be back to his best after a few questionable performances.
Left Back: Cameron Borthwick-Jackson- After a few noteworthy performances from the youngster, Borthwick-Jackson may have nailed down his place on the left side of defence. Depending on the lineup, Young or Darmian could provide cover if Borthwick-Jackson fails to do his job.
Midfield
Morgan Schneiderlin- Schneiderlin, who was a bit overrun in the midfield in the first half, ended up doing a fine job screening the back four in the win. He appears back to his best after a much needed rest during the Holiday run of matches.
Ander Herrera- Herrera, who remains a cult hero and fan favorite was a creative spark at Anfield and in this encounter may be pushed back a bit to aid in the defensive side of things. Of course, he’ll be allowed to push forward and help in attack if need be.
Attacking Left: Memphis Depay- The Dutchman has been coming on in the second half of matches lately and has been providing the spark that the attack needs. Despite having a frustrating first half of the season, Memphis could very well be one of the key attackers that help United reach the top four.
Attacking Right: Juan Mata- Another midfielder who came off the bench in Anfield and will be restored back to the starting 11. Mata and the United attack looked a bit better on the second half when he and Memphis were introduced for Lingard and Herrera.
Central Attacking: Wayne Rooney- The Captain has been in fine form as of late and looks to be back to his best, after scoring the late winner in Anfield to secure the much needed three points.
Attack
Anthony Martial has been isolated on the left as of late, but with the lineup shuffle he should be played centrally and terrorize Southampton with his electric pace. The Frenchman will be looked to find the back of the net this Saturday, something he has not done since the January 2nd match against Swansea.
