Paul Scholes was right about Manuel Ugarte - but Manchester United need him to prove him wrong

New signing Manuel Ugarte could make his debut when Manchester United face Southampton at St Mary's on Saturday lunchtime.

The Uruguay international, 23, sealed a move to Old Trafford on transfer deadline day, joining the club on a five-year deal from Paris Saint-Germain.

He was introduced to United's fans for the very first time less than 48 hours later, being presented to the Old Trafford faithful ahead of the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool.

His introduction to the crowd featured a small embrace with legendary United midfielder Paul Scholes, who was pitchside as Ugarte left the tunnel. The pair shook hands and had a very brief conversation, which no doubt featured Scholes welcoming the midfielder to United and wishing him well.

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United's midfield was, of course, the biggest talking point post-match, with Casemiro committing two first-half errors that consequently led to Luis Diaz netting a brace. The Brazilian was substituted at half-time and replaced by youngster Toby Collyer.

Despite Casemiro's premature exit, Liverpool still continued to overpower United in midfield, highlighting the sheer size of the task facing Ugarte. He has been drafted in to provide a sense of discipline and control in the middle third, as well as some much-needed protection for the defensive line.

It is no secret that he is going to have to make an immediate impact in an effort to help United become more stable in the middle. But as much as Scholes is looking forward to seeing what Ugarte will add to Erik ten Hag's team, he is not convinced he will single-handedly be able to help United