In the first three games of the Premier League season, Southampton have scored only one goal, which was scored by Yukinari Sugawara in a 3-1 defeat against Brentford. Overall, the Saints have created five big chances and their expected goal stats is more than 3 goals. Therefore, Russell Martin's side haven't been good at finishing big chances which could have helped in taking a draw against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
While defensive mistakes need to be improved, Southampton needs to start scoring more goals from their big chances. Currently, Ben Brereton Diaz and Adam Armstrong have played as the centre forwards in the three league games, but changes are expected in the attack when the Saints face Manchester United in a home fixture at the St. Mary's Stadium. Also, Ben Brereton Diaz will represent his national team Chile in the international break as they face Argentina and Bolivia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Cameron Archer could start for Southampton against Manchester United
Thus, Diaz will have a race against time after the Bolivia match to return to Southampton in time for the Manchester United game. Hence, manager Russell Martin will need to consider starting another forward alongside Armstrong in the fourth Premier League matchday. Hence, Cameron Archer is most likely to get his first start for Southampton in the Premier League after scoring a brace in the 5-3 win over Championship side Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup.
Archer joined Southampton in this transfer window for a transfer fee of £15 million from Aston Villa. The 22-year-old striker possesses great pace and physicality which helps him in winning several aerial duels inside the box. Also his finishing is good and he can be the key for Russell Martin's side to score more goals in the upcoming matches to take more points in the Premier League.
Now, it remains to be seen whether Cameron Archer starts the Manchester United match or again comes as a second half substitute.