New Delhi: A step away from their first title of the season, Manchester Untied take on Southampton on Sunday, in the final of EFL Cup at Wembley.
While Jose Mourinho will be aiming to adorn the club's trophy shelf by becoming the first Red Devil Manager to win a title in his very first season; a win for Southampton, under coach Claude Puel, who is also a debutant, would be nothing short of a history.
Regardless of how it is seen, it is the men from Old Trafford who go in as favourites, but surprises are always welcomed.
Ins and Outs:
Manchester United- After the much speculated China transfer talks about Wayne Rooney, the striker came out to say that he is continuing with the club. Mourinho, too has finally given the England striker his shot at fame by handing him an opportunity in the final. Chances are that the fans might get to see Juan Mata stride for a goal after he missed out a couple of league matches owing to his grandfather's death. However, Henrikh Mkhitaryan will miss out due to injury.
Southampton- Recently signed-in defender Martin Caceres will likely be given his first start after defender Virgil van Dijk was ruled out with an injury. Injured striker Charlie Austin will be absent in the final.
Predicted line-up:
Manchester United- David De Gea, Antonio Valencia, Chris Smalling, Eri Bailly, Dailey Blind, Paul Pogba, Ander Herrera, Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata, Anthony Martial, Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Southampton – Fraser Forster, Cedric Soares, Martin Caceres, Maya Yoshida, Ryan Bertrand, Jordy Clasie, Piere-Emile Hojeberg, Sofiane Boufal, Nathan Redmond, Dusan Tadic, Manolo Gabbiadini
Players to watch out for:
Manchester United- Self-proclaimed 'Indiana Jones of Football', Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be expected to continue with his goal-scoring spree. He debuted at this very stadium, a year ago to give the Red Devils the Community Shield, by scoring a scintillating header in the dying minutes of the game. Thus, a win today, will give the 35-year-old , his second title at the same venue.
Southampton- The biggest threat to the Re Devils will be 25-year-old Italian midfilder Manolo Gabbiadini. If one is expecting a surprise turn of events at Wembley, this Italian will be its root cause.
What time will the match start?
The match will kick off at 9 pm IST
Where to watch the final?
You can watch it on Ten 2 and Ten1 HD
Live streaming- tensports.com | sonyliv.com | Sony LIV app
