How Manchester United should line up vs Southampton in Premier League fixture

Manchester United welcome Southampton to Old Trafford in the early Premier League kick-off on Saturday afternoon.

United won two consecutive Premier League games over Brentford and West Ham ahead of the winter break, but they returned to action to lose against Middlesbrough in the FA Cup before drawing 1-1 with Burnley at Turf Moor just days later.

Paul Pogba gave United the lead in that match but Jay Rodriguez's second-half goal ensured the points were shared.

United have 15 games in the Premier League still to play this season and they can't afford to drop points against lowly opposition if they want to secure Champions League football. United moved to fifth in the table after Tuesday's draw at Burnley.

Southampton head into this game after beating Tottenham 3-2 and they'll be hoping for another positive result.

Here's how our MEN writers think United should line up.

Samuel Luckhurst

One of the first decisions the next United manager has to make is to select a new captain. Harry Maguire was prematurely promoted and his season took another turn for the worse at Burnley, where he cost United two goals. He should be dropped for Victor Lindelof.

United have attacked well without a greater output with Jadon Sancho on the left and Marcus Rashford on the right, and Rashford should continue in the absence of a standout alternative.

Edinson Cavani did little and so did Cristiano Ronaldo when he came on, but it would be sensible to rotate the centre forwards.

Rich Fay

United's hands are tied in the absence of some notable squad players, but there is still enough reason to make changes with Maguire lucky to keep his place, despite the backing of the manager.

The midfield picks itself, especially without Fred and Matic available,