Southampton’s head coach, Russell Martin, has expressed a strong sense of optimism regarding his team’s chances against Manchester United. His confidence stems from his observation of various strategies that other managers have successfully employed against United. With his team set to face the Red Devils at St. Mary’s Stadium, Martin is resolute in his belief that significant progress can be achieved, particularly after Southampton’s challenging start to the Premier League season.
Despite losing their first three league games, Southampton remains hopeful of turning things around. The upcoming match represents a crucial opportunity for Martin’s squad to correct their course and build some much-needed momentum. The recent international break offered Martin and his staff the chance to reassess their approach and pinpoint areas for improvement. This period of reflection has led to renewed determination within the camp to avoid further defeats, particularly as Southampton’s attack has been lackluster so far. Their lone league goal, scored by Yukinari Sugawara in a 3-1 loss to Brentford, highlights the pressing need for more offensive contributions.
Martin’s trust in the core squad from last season has, so far, failed to deliver the desired results. However, the mounting pressure and the upcoming clash with Manchester United may push him to consider more drastic changes to his lineup and tactics, especially as Southampton looks to break out of their poor run of form.
### Team and Injury Situation
In terms of injuries, Southampton faces several challenges. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu remains sidelined with a long-term Achilles injury he suffered back in April, a blow that has left the team without their first-choice shot-stopper. Adding to Martin’s concerns, Kamaldeen Sulemana is unlikely to feature against Manchester United as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury sustained during preseason. While there had been hopes of his return after a failed transfer to Ajax, the coach confirmed that aside from Bazunu, Sulemana is the only player officially ruled out for this critical fixture.
Ross Stewart, another player under scrutiny, is slowly working his way back to full fitness after spending much of the season on the bench. The Scottish forward, who arrived at the club in the summer of 2023, has only made a handful of substitute appearances, but he has resumed training with the squad. Despite this, his return to competitive action is expected to take place in Southampton’s upcoming Carabao Cup clash against Everton on September 17th, rather than against Manchester United.
### Tactical Adjustments and Potential Lineup Changes
Tactically, Southampton has predominantly lined up in a 3-5-2 formation under Martin’s guidance this season. However, given the team’s underwhelming performances so far, as well as the extended period of preparation during the international break, a shift in formation could be on the horizon. A 4-3-3 setup has been suggested as a possible alternative, offering a more balanced and attacking approach that could help Southampton compete more effectively against Manchester United.
A key feature of this tactical reshuffle would be the introduction of Aaron Ramsdale, the club’s £25 million Deadline Day signing. Ramsdale is set to make his debut in goal, adding stability to a defense that has struggled in recent matches. If Martin opts for a back four, it will likely necessitate the omission of a center-back. Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who has had a steady start to the season, may be the unfortunate casualty if the coach chooses to retain the more experienced pairing of Jan Bednarek and Jack Stephens at the heart of the defense. This veteran duo may be better equipped to handle the pressure of facing Manchester United’s potent attack.
In terms of full-backs, both Yukinari Sugawara and Kyle Walker-Peters have been among Southampton’s standout performers this season, primarily operating as wingbacks in the 3-5-2 system. However, since both players favor the right side, a dilemma arises in how to integrate them into a back four without disrupting the balance of the team. Martin will need to decide whether to retain them both or make a tactical concession by deploying one in a less familiar role.
In midfield, Flynn Downes is expected to continue in his holding role, providing defensive stability in front of the backline. An intriguing possibility is the inclusion of 18-year-old Tyler Dibling, who has impressed in recent training sessions and could be handed his first Premier League start. The young midfielder’s energy and creativity could inject much-needed dynamism into the center of the park. Alternatively, Martin may opt for Chelsea loanee Lesley Ugochukwu to provide additional defensive cover alongside Downes, allowing Dibling to operate in a more advanced position.
Another option for Martin is Joe Aribo, who has outperformed Will Smallbone since Southampton’s return to the top flight. Aribo could slot into the midfield to offer a more attacking presence, especially if Martin chooses to adopt a more aggressive game plan.
### Attack and Offensive Strategy
In the forward line, the potential shift to a 4-3-3 formation could see Adam Armstrong return to his favored position on the right wing. Armstrong excelled in this role last season, using his pace and direct running to cause problems for opposition defenses. On the opposite flank, Ben Brereton Diaz is expected to feature, offering a goal-scoring threat from the left. Cameron Archer, who netted twice in Southampton’s recent Carabao Cup win over Cardiff City, could be handed his first Premier League start as the central striker, leading the line against Manchester United’s defense.
Southampton’s Deadline Day signings, Ryan Fraser and Maxwel Cornet, also provide additional firepower from the bench. Both players bring Premier League experience and could be instrumental in changing the game if Martin’s initial tactical setup needs adjustment.
As Southampton prepares for this pivotal fixture, the onus is on Martin to make the right tactical decisions and lift his team out of their slump. The clash against Manchester United could serve as a turning point in their season, with Martin’s adjustments and lineup changes potentially playing a decisive role in the outcome. The pressure is mounting on both the players and the coach to deliver a performance that will ignite their campaign and restore confidence among the fans.