EPL 2012-13: Manchester United vs Southampton Preview

Manchester, Jan 30: Southampton and manager Mauricio Pochettino face a daunting take of playing Manchester United at Old Trafford.

The Saints performance against Everton suggested that Pochettino i sheading towards the right direction to keep them away from relegation. Southampton fans are still shocked about the sacking of Nigel Adkins but have to back their new boss at this crucial stage in the league.

The Saints are unbeaten in six league games, four of them away from home. But a trip to face United at Old Trafford has been the toughest fixtre for any suide in the Premier League. The Red Devils record at home reads W10 D0 L1.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men beat Fulham with ease in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday. United have also stopped conceding early goals but are relentless in attack.

Record between the two sides indicates a confortable win for Untied. Southampton last won at Old Trafford back in 1988, a single win in the last 17 league visits. Pochettino's side will always look for an upset even though the odds are against them.

Ferguson will recall Robin van Persie to the starting XI after being rested during the FA Cup win over Fulham. Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand will be in United's defence. Jonny Evans and Ashley Young remain sidelined.

New signing Vegard Forren is in line to make his Premier League debut while club captain Adam Lallana could return after being sidelined for nearly two months.

Trivia:

*Manchester United have won their last seven matches against Southampton in all competitions.

*United have lost only 32 of their 397 Premier League matches at Old Trafford.

*Southampton have conceded 26 away goals, the second-highest tally in the league this season.

Probable Lineups:

Manchester United (4-4-2): De Gea-Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra-Valencia, Carrick, Cleverley, Nani-Rooney, van Persie.

Southampton (4-4-1-1): Boruc-Clyne, Yoshida, Hooiveld, Shaw-Schneiderlin, Cork, Puncheon, Ramirez-Guly do Prado-Lambert.

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