Man Utd: The first six fixtures of the new Premier League season
Manchester United missed out on the chance to make it two Premier League wins from two matches on Sunday as Southampton held them to a draw. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side went into the game looking to claim all three points. But that didn’t happen, with the Red Devils unable to emerge victorious from a physical contest at St Mary’s.
Southampton found themselves under the cosh against United early on.
But it was the hosts who took the lead in the 30th minute, with Che Adams’ effort hitting Fred and trickling past David De Gea.
United appeared rocked from that goal, with the Saints beginning to take control of the contest.
Yet Mason Greenwood levelled for the Red Devils, with the result then finishing 1-1.
Express Sport will now take a look at four things we learned from the contest, with Solskjaer’s side missing out on the chance to clock up two consecutive victories.
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Manchester United star Mason Greenwood has emerged as a leader after Southampton goal (Image: GETTY)
Matic’s best days are over
There came a time where Nemanja Matic was one of the best holding midfielders on the planet.
But while he wasn’t particularly dreadful against Southampton, his performance was tame.
United needed energy and Matic, at the age of 33, has lost the legs he had during the peak years of his career at Chelsea.
When compared to Scott McTominay’s enterprising display against Leeds, it was telling.
Matic will be useful to have around but, playing away from home against a team with Southampton’s energy levels, it was a gamble that failed to pay off.
Manchester United star Mason Greenwood was flat in Southampton clash (Image: GETTY)
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De Gea emerges as a hero
With the clock ticking down, Southampton had a glorious chance to win the game.
Stuart Armstrong was sent through on goal after Harry Maguire was dispossessed at the back.
But the former Blackburn striker saw De Gea save his effort, with the Spain international parrying it away.
It was a massive moment for the Red Devils.
And it also suggests De Gea won’t give up his No 1 jersey without a fight following Dean Henderson’s recovery from coronavirus.