Southampton kickstarted their season last weekend where they recorded a 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at the AMEX Stadium. The South Coast outfit saw the hosts down to 10 men after just half an hour into the game and thereafter, they managed to control the proceedings with second half goals from Moussa Djenepo and Nathan Redmond.

Their next challenge comes in the form of Manchester United at St Mary’s and they can anticipate a difficult test on their hands. Still, they should go into the game with some level of optimism, considering Manchester United have produced a mixed run of form during the opening three Premier League matches.

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side gave a good account of themselves against European champions Liverpool where they suffered a slender 2-1 defeat and a repeat of a similar performance should test the nerves of a United side, who have shown the same inconsistency from the previous campaign, where they finished sixth.

The Red Devils started the campaign with a stunning 4-0 win over Chelsea at Old Trafford but they have since stumbled with a draw and defeat to Wolves and Crystal Palace respectively. In both of those games, they squandered the chance to convert from a penalty kick while there has been the indecision on the defensive point of view.

As such, it’s clear that Solskjaer is still struggling to find the right tactical formulation for the team and there needs to be an improvement in the centre of the park where Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay have been found wanting on occasions. Taking this into regard, the Saints may fancy getting something out of the game, although there may not be a clean sheet for either team.

Betting Tip

Southampton to draw against Manchester United – 3.50 @ Bet365

Both teams to score – 1.80 @ Bet365