Manchester United are on a
high currently with four wins in their last four games, and the next game
against the Saints is a major game, that will put United’s depth, strength,
character and form into test. It is a game that will put all parts of the United
team on display to test.
Offensively, United have got
a lot to do as the Southampton defence have conceded the least goals in the
league this season, lesser than Chelsea and Manchester City. Though they
conceded three against Manchester City, going forward, United have got to be at
their best, ruthless and clinical.
Defensively, United have got
to be at their best, as Southampton are a team that can hurt, and score with
the slightest of opportunity. Pelle and Tadic must be stopped effectively,
tactically supply must be cut from Pelle, therefore, Tadic and other attacking
midfielders must be well marked.
Judging by the Opposition and
current form of our players, here is my starting XI
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| Via: http://sharemytactics.com/ |
De Gea: he’s no doubt one of
our most consistent performers this season, with many match winning saves; he
was at his best against Stoke, in the last game. He is one of the few players
with a guarantee starting shirt irrespective of tactical changes or opposition.
Valencia: he has been doing a
more than decent job in the right back position, and has power and ability to occasionally
drive forward and pull in the crosses, Raphael is back but not yet ready for
first team duties yet, Valencia therefore starts at right back.
Smalling: have you read this nice
article about Smallling, if not please do. He’s recently picked up and is in
fine form, he’s been solid in the last three games and his form is one of the
main reasons behind United defensive stability.
Rojo: expect him to continue
his partnership with Smalling at the heart of the defence. He’s been decent and
tidy in recent games, but they’ve both got to be very alert in this game
Young: this should be one of
the Van Gaal miracles at Old Trafford, as in the last two or three seasons, no
United fan would have thought Ashley Young would b playing and performing well
at left back. He’s been decent for a winger turned defender, though in the last
game, he had some shaky moments, I still expect him to get the nod.
Carrick: he’s been one of the
main reasons behind United’s turn around. His ball distribution, game reading
ability and his number of passes per game have been top notch in the last few
games. Expect him to stabilize the midfield, and pull the strings as usual.
Fellaini: he is another
player, whose recent form has improved greatly. Since the injury to Blind, he’s
stepped up his game and get in among the goals. I expect to see his box to box
movement in this game, and maybe he’ll be saddled with the responsibility of
closing down Tadic.
Herrera: one of United’s best
players before his recent rib injury, and Di Maria’s injury seems to have
created more playing time for him. His intelligence, movement, passing and eye
for goal; assist and ability to track back and help the defence will be of
immense value in the game.
Mata: he’s gradually getting
into his stride, based on his performance in his last two matches, I expect him
to start.
Rooney: he’s back after missing the stoke game, expect
him to be inspirational as always, giving his all and maybe getting a goal or
more.
Van Persie: he shouldn’t get
my yes, but LVG has got so much faith in him, and I think he’ll start. Wish
he’ll also get a goal or more in this match, if not I expect him to be
substituted as the game grows.
That’s my United starting
eleven, what’s yours?
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