Analysis: Manchester United 2 Southampton 1

Premier League, Wednesday 30^th January 2013

Wayne Rooney scored two first-half goals to overturn an early deficit, but the manner of United’s overall performance against Southampton will not have pleased manager Sir Alex Ferguson. United were confident and fluid, yet still sloppy in the first half before being largely overrun in the second. Here’s some brief analysis from the fixture:

Different wide men

Ferguson continued his habit of selecting in-form players with Chris Smalling and Phil Jones in defence, and also Shinji Kagawa and Danny Welbeck out wide. Kagawa and Welbeck’s inclusions make for interesting analysis because wide midfield is of course not their natural positions. Despite United lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, at times there were similarities to a 4-2-2-2 most commonly used by Manchester City. Opposed to David Silva playing in an inside left position however there was Shinji Kagawa. This inside wing-play presented United with different options to the usual touchline-hugging style of play seen by most wingers. Kagawa was superb at getting in between the lines of defence and midfield, and caused Southampton problems by being hard to pick up. The Japanese’s excellent movement resulted in United’s first goal, and for that he must be praised.

Southampton pressing

The second half in particular was a superb example of pressing from Southampton as they pinned United back almost constantly. The last time a team to so effectively press United were Athletic Bilbao in last season’s Europa League. The ease with which the Red Devils were pushed back was a concern, and Michael Carrick and Anderson must be criticised for their lack of control over the game in midfield. As the game progressed, Phil Jones was moved into midfield and Rio Ferdinand came on into defence to eventually secure the win.

United are often caused problems when pressed effectively, but this isn't always the case. Particularly against Manchester City earlier in the season, the United midfield showed it can grasp control on a tight game when the performance is high enough. Against Southampton however, United were simply not playing with enough intensity to deal with the pressing. The pitch of course was also of detriment to United’s usual slick, passing game, and this needs to be addressed in order to help the team.

Going Forward

Ferguson will be pleased with the three points from this fixture after what was a nervous performance at times. Carrick and Anderson underperformed in central midfield, and a well-rested Tom Cleverley can be expected to make a return to the first team soon. United now face Fulham away at the weekend as they look to pick up another important three points.

Ratings

[4-2-3-1]: de Gea-6, Jones-6, Smalling-6, Vidic-7, Evra-7, Welbeck-6, Anderson-5, Carrick-5, Kagawa-7*, Rooney-7, van Persie-6

(Ferdinand-6, Rafael-6, Nani-6)

*Man of the Match