Manchester Utd v Southampton – 5/1 odds available on home win
Manchester United will look to continue their strong recent from when they welcome Southampton to Old Trafford on Sunday, as Paddy Power offer free bets and boost Man Utd’s price to a very impressive 5/1.
The Red Devils are set to be boosted by a first start since November for Angel Di Maria.
The return of the former Real Madrid is key to United’s chances of downing an in-form Southampton that has picked up four points in their recent meetings with Chelsea and Arsenal.
The mercurial Argentine has been a revelation whenever he has played for the club, with 3 goals and 6 assists in his first 11 games for the clubs. Di Maria is likely to form a midfield three alongside Anders Herrera and Michael Carrick.
Di Maria’s return will mean Wayne Rooney will resume striking duties with Robin Van Persie or Radamel Falco likely to make way.
The return of Marcos Rojo will prove timely with Luke Shaw out injured. Daley Blind has resumed training and will be assessed before the game while Ashley Young, Antonio Valencia and Rafael are all doubts. Marouane Fellaini is definitely out.
Southampton go into this fixture without key forward Sadio Mane. The Senegal forward, scorer of three goals in his last three outings has an ankle injury. Shane Long could come into the side as a result.
Morgan Schneiderlein returns following suspension while Nathaniel Clyne is a doubt with an ankle injury. Emmanuel Mayuka and Maya Yoshida have gone to the African Cup of Nations and Asian cup respectively while Jack Cork has a knock.
Ronald Koeman will look to build on a strong Christmas that in addition to the strong results against Chelsea and Arsenal also included a 3-0 win over Everton.
The return of Schneiderlin will be a huge boost and while the absence of Nathaniel Clyne, Alderweireld will ensure that defensively the Saints are strong even if the attacking element is lost.
