Manchester United was held to a 1-1 draw by 10-man Southampton at St. Mary's on Saturday. It was a match that was crucial for United to get back in the race for a top four spot. The Red Devils failed to capitalize or even trouble the Saints after Kevin Danso received his second yellow card of the afternoon in the 73rd minute. It seemed to be that same old story for United — what little preseason optimism left is now gone. What’s worse is that Manchester United has only won three Premier League games in its past 16.
United started the match well, pushing for the opener. On 10 minutes, Daniel James curled in a beauty from outside the box into the top right corner. United pushed for more but couldn’t find a second goal.
This lack of ruthlessness was punished by Southampton in the second half, with Yannik Jestergaard scoring a thumping header. Victor Lindelof could blamed for the goal, as he was beaten in the air too easily.
Danso got his second yellow card 73 minutes in, and United threw everything it could at Southampton. The lack of incision, grit and quality in the final third from United was depressing.
This is the third match in a row that Manchester United has dropped points it shouldn’t have. Wolves gifted United a chance to win but the Red Devils didn’t take it. Crystal Palace threw out a lifeline and United couldn’t take it either.
Today was no different; Marcus Rashford has been genuinely poor, Andreas Pereira and Jesse Lingard did nothing noteworthy, Paul Pogba is and has been underperforming for too long, Scott McTominay is United’s best midfielder right now, which is concerning, and Lindelof has been directly at fault for two goals in two games.
Daniel James has certainly impressed in his last three matches and has been United’s most dangerous attacking player. To be honest, James looks to be the only player in the Manchester United squad that’s playing with confidence. If today was any indication of United’s season, it’s going to be a long one for United fans.
The18 Recommends For You
