Manchester United travel to St. Mary’s on Sunday to face an in-form Southampton team lead by the ever-impressive Ralph Hasenhüttl

United go into the game having won their last three games on the bounce in all competitions against Everton, West Brom and Istanbul Başakşehir respectively. 

In preparation for Sunday’s clash, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer faced questions from the media, here’s what he had to say... 

On Southampton:  

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer acknowledged the achievements of his upcoming opponents and was keen to emphasise their threat, stating: "A difficult one. Over last 30, 40 game block they are one of the top teams. Made great improvements so we know how difficult it will be. Drew twice with them last season." 

Southampton have perhaps been the surprise package of the season so far as they sit fifth in the table, just three points off top spot. 

Unbeaten in seven since their 2-5 loss to league leaders Tottenham Hotspur, the Saints come into this fixture with more than just a fighting chance, even without the free firing Danny Ings, who is due to miss out through injury. 

On United’s absentees: 

Solskjaer confirmed the fitness statues of multiple players. Both Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba have been out since the international break. Solskjaer addressed both of them, stating: "Scott [McTominay] and Paul [Pogba] didn't train this morning, they weren't on the grass. They look very unlikely for the weekend." 

He continued: "Marcus [Rashford], Victor [Lindelöf], Aaron [Wan-Bissaka] should be okay but not 100%. Luke [Shaw] has started rehab on the grass, not with the squad." 

With Donny van de Beek impressing midweek and multiple big name midfielders absent, will we finally see the Dutchman make his first Premier League start on Sunday? 

On Bruno Fernandes’ Impact: 

Much has been made about the impact of Bruno Fernandes since his arrival to Manchester in January as the Portuguese maestro now sits on 34 goal contributions in 35 games following a brace midweek. 

Solskjaer recognised the importance of his prized asset, stating: "He [Fernandes] does have that presence [like Cristiano Ronaldo]. Just look at the results since he came in. He is a team player, which is key for us now. I wasn't looking forward to telling Bruno he was resting vs Leipzig, but he took it really well."  

With a hectic schedule fast approaching, will we see Fernandes rested for the trip to St. Mary’s as a visit from French giants Paris Saint-Germain looms over the club?  

On January Signings: 

Solskjaer downplayed any speculation that United would be delving into the transfer market over the new year, explaining: “It’s hard to predict the financial situation of other teams. I don't predict a lot of ins and outs [in January], the football world has changed. Depends on injury situations — I am very happy with my squad, we are getting stronger." 

With many fans unhappy at the relatively poor start to the season, it appears the manager clearly sees a lot of positives in the current crop of players. 

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