Manchester United head to the south coast to take on a newly promoted Southampton FC side in what will be the very first match of the final Premier League weekend following the international break. Will Luke Shaw face his former side? What about Victor Lindelof, Rasmus Hojlund and some of the other injured Red Devils players?
We’ll break down the team fitness situation here ahead of this match-up between two currently lower table sides.
Manchester United at Southampton FC FYIs
Man United Preview: Starting XI Prediction Team News Injury Report
Kickoff: Saturday, Sept. 14, St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton
Result Probability: United win 55%, Draw 24%, Southampton win 21%
Premier League Form, Standing: United 14th, 3 pts, WLL Southampton 19th, 0 pts, LLL
Man United Team News
Shaw has a calf injury, which has prevented him from making an appearance yet this season. However, he could be finally passed fit here. As for Lindelof, he has a muscular issue in his ankle/foot, but could feature here, provided he passes a late fitness test. The same cannot be said for Hojund, who likely won’t be seen on the pitch again until later in month.
Meanwhile Mason Mount has an issue in his thigh/hamstring, which is being reported as “physical discomfort.” However, it is apparently understood that the problem will keep him out until sometime in October.
Elsewhere Tyrell Malacia (knee surgery) is looking at an October return as well.
Finally, Leny Yoro (ankle) will remain out of commission until November.
Paul M. Banks is the Founding Editor of The Sports Bank. He’s also the author of “Transatlantic Passage: How the English Premier League Redefined Soccer in America,” and “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry.”
He currently contributes to USA Today’s NFL Wires Network. His past bylines include the New York Daily News, Sports Illustrated and the Chicago Tribune. His work has been featured in numerous outlets, including the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, the Washington Post and ESPN. You can follow him on Linked In and Twitter.