Pellegrino’s preferred midfield pairing
With the Virgil van Dijk saga over, it appeared Mauricio Pellegrino made a statement with his Old Trafford team selection. It was fairly obvious Wesley Hoedt and Maya Yoshida would take over as the starting centre-backs. However, the central midfield pairing was still in question.
Saints fans have been largely impressed with the recent play of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, and should be pleased he got the start. Along side Southampton 2016/17 player of the year, Oriol Romeu, the pair negated almost all of United’s central attack.
James Ward-Prowse completed the midfield, but was deployed more as an attacker. Regularly occupying the right wing in front of Jack Stephens, who was instructed to sit back.
Mario Lemina and Steven Davis were the odd men out. Although, the Gabon International did make a late appearance as a substitute, he made a few mistakes that could have cost the game. Lemina’s inconsistency could worry Pellegrino, as he can look the best player in the park, or below average.
Steven Davis will still have his leadership role, and will get opportunities to deputize the side. However, he looks a step off the pace, and unable to play the full 90.
Romeu was always the favourite for the defensive centre-midfield job, but early season form provided a hint of doubt. However, the Spaniard has cemented his position once again. The surprise, is that his partner appears to be Hojbjerg.
Pierre-Emile seems to be doing everything right these days. Even his Tottenham post-match press conference was all the rave. His work on the field has been excellent, as he covers more ground than any of his teammates, and is superb in possession.
Pellegrino’s choice to start the Dane in back -to-back away matches, against top-six opponents, is speaking volumes. Even more so with the manager’s future with Southampton in jeopardy.