SUGGESTED STARTING XIs: Manchester United host Southampton at Old Trafford

Manchester United welcome Southampton to the Theatre of Dreams today hoping to make it 12 games unbeaten in the Premier League since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over. A win could also lift United back into the top four, depending on other fixtures. Some players are returning from injury, some the match seems one to early, but who will the Norwegian pick to tackle the Saints?

Ali Akbar

Although Ashley Young got a decent goal against Crystal Palace, his defending was poor and he was at fault for the goal we conceded.

Fred was poor against Palace, but since Andreas Pereira isn’t much better I’d keep Fred so that he can get a decent run of games to prove himself.

Although Marcus Rashford is fit, Romelu Lukaku deserves to start up top as he scored a brace against the Eagles, so the England international should play on the right instead.

David de Gea

Diogo Dalot, Chris Smalling, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw

Fred, Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba

Marcus Rashford, Romelu Lukaku, Alexis Sanchez

Ollie Slack

I’m in agreement with Ali regarding who should be in Manchester United’s back four against Southampton. Ashley Young is the more experienced head and should be rested ahead of the trip to Paris on Wednesday. Southampton at home does give allow Dalot licence to venture further forward too.

I find it bizarre that Andreas Pereira was dropped for the match against Palace, perhaps away from home Solskjaer wanted someone a bit more physical in Fred. Pereira’s performance against Liverpool was a really mature one. But, given Solskjaer has now reintroduced Fred back into the mould it would be harsh to drop him after one game – that’s the last thing he needs.

Romelu Lukaku starts up top again after his brace at Selhurst Park, but today’s match may not be one that suits the Belgium. He will be receiving the ball in tight spaces and his movement to interlink play could be crucial in breaking down the Saints – neither of which are his strongest attributes.

Resting Rashford for the match in the week seemed sensible and I personally would have allowed him to rest up at home. Clearly, his ankle issue can’t be as bad as first thought. However, with PSG just around the corner, resting the youngster again may be a wise choice. That would then provide an opportunity to Angel Gomes, who I would love to see being given some more game time. At home against Southampton also provides a nice opportunity to do so from the start.

David de Gea

Diogo Dalot, Chris Smalling, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw

Fred, Scott McTominay, Paul Pogba

Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku, Angel Gomes

Manchester United take on Southampton in the Premier League today at 3 PM local time.