Manchester United are set to face Southampton this afternoon, in a clash which Erik ten Hag will be desperate to win after a slow start to the campaign.
His side have suffered defeats at the hands of Brighton and Liverpool so far this season, and failing to pick up three points at St. Mary’s would see further questions raised of the manager.
Ten Hag has confirmed that Manuel Ugarte is available for the trip to the south coast, though it remains to be seen whether the Uruguayan international is handed his debut after his public backing of Casemiro.
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Man Utd shortlist second free agent target
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move for Davy Klaassen.
The Daily Star report that the ex-Ajax star has been shortlisted as a potential Casemiro replacement by the higher powers at Old Trafford.
Klaassen is currently a free agent after being released by Inter Milan, with several sides around Europe monitoring his situation closely. Fellow free agent Adrien Rabiot has been linked with a move to Old Trafford as well.
Tyrell Malacia return in sight
Erik ten Hag has provided a positive injury update on Tyrell Malacia.
The left-back has not played competitively since May last year due to a knee issue which required multiple surgeries, but he is now edging closer to a return to the pitch.
Asked about the defender on Friday, Ten Hag said: “"Of course, we want to motivate him to return, but it’s not so easy when you are so long away.
"Over a season now from an injury to return, but he’s working very hard, he’s progressing really well in this moment. He’s making big steps, so we think, at short notice, we can expect him in the team training, and he is a talent, it’s natural. I expect also, soon, he can return into games then."
Ten Hag reveals Casemiro talks
Erik ten Hag has revealed that he has spoken with Casemiro about his role at Manchester United this season.
The Red Devils forked out £50million to sign Manuel Ugarte from PSG over the summer to solve their midfield woes, and he is expected to make his debut later today.
However, Ten Hag still retains belief in Casemiro and the Brazil international is expected to continue featuring regularly.
The Dutchman explained: “You definitely need him, for sure.
“Of course, I speak with him about the situation. Everyone can have a bad at the office - have you never had a bad day at the office?”
Rashford's camp hits out at ex-United stars
Marcus Rashford reportedly feels that he is being ‘bullied’ by former Manchester United stars.
According to i, those within the England international’s camp believe that the winger is struggling with comments from ex-professionals.
One source reportedly said: “When someone else misplaces a pass it does not get mentioned, but when it is Marcus it’s different. Very different. The criticism coming his way is an onslaught. It is bullying. Supporters believe what senior ex-players say, which only makes (matters) worse.”
Another added: “He is a local lad from Manchester living out his dream. So why can people not get off his back? Some support from somewhere might help him get back to his best. Without that, and with these ex-players unable to contain themselves when he does the slightest thing wrong, it only makes things harder for him.”
