After a rocky start to the season, Manchester United are very much in the top four race, and will go to third with a win. Southampton are in a similar spot, one point ahead of United, but they got here by very different means. They were one of the league’s fast starters, but their early schedule was kind to them. Since they started playing the big teams, the Saints have lost two straight, and will be out of the top four if they lose again on Monday.
Southampton vs. Manchester United live stream: How to watch the EPL online
The Saints have dropped their last two to top opposition. A third straight loss, and they could find themselves outside of the top four quickly.
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The concerning thing for Saints fans who thought their side could realistically compete for top four will be the manner of their losses. They struggled to create chances against an Arsenal team that has been very shaky defensively against some substandard opposition, and they were thoroughly dominated by Manchester City a week prior. Injuries have taken their toll on the Saints, and losing to United could see them exit the top four permanently.
United, meanwhile, are a bit lucky that their schedule has balanced their tough games with easier ones. They deservedly lost to City last month, but have won four straight since then, including one at Arsenal.
Key player - Dusan Tadic (Southampton)
When Tadic is at his best, he’s a terror to opposing defense, but he’s looking like the kind of player who beats up on small sides, but struggles against the top teams. He’s been kept quiet recently, and the Saints will need him to have a big game against Manchester United to get a result. Given United’s injuries and average defensive midfielders, this should be possible.
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Key matchup - Juan Mata vs. Nathaniel Clyne/Victor Wanyama
With Angel Di Maria likely out again, Juan Mata should shift to a left-central shuttling role and occupy the Argentine’s place. He’s not the same kind of fast, direct threat that Di Maria is, nor is he as good defensively, but he’s a trickier player who’s excellent at turning away from defenders. His position means that there won’t be any one player responsible for stopping him, but Wanyama will have to make it hard for him to get the ball, while Clyne will have to prevent him from drifting into space out wide and getting good crosses in.
Southampton injuries and suspensions
Out: Jack Cork (ankle), Morgan Schneiderlin (groin), James Ward-Prowse (ankle), Sam Gallagher (knee), Jay Rodriguez (knee). In doubt: Toby Alderweireld (hamstring)
Manchester United injuries and suspensions
Out: Angel Di Maria (hamstring), Daley Blind (knee), Phil Jones (calf). In doubt: Rafael (groin), Luke Shaw (ankle)
Southampton should have all of the above-listed players back for the busy holiday period, save for possibly Rodriguez, but they’re very thin for this match. The same goes for United, who will have to field a very makeshift back line if their two top fullbacks can’t play.
Match date/time: Monday, 3 p.m. ET, 8 p.m. local
Venue: St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, England
TV: NBC Sports Network (U.S. - English), Mun2 (U.S. - Spanish), Sky Sports 1 (U.K.), TSN1 (Canada)
Online: NBC Live Extra (U.S. - English), Deportes Telemundo en vivo (U.S. - Spanish), Sky Go (U.K.), TSN online (Canada)
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