Southampton and Ireland striker Michael Obafemi is set to start against Manchester United for tonight's Premier League clash.
The Irish teen has availed of increased game time recently and impressed boss Mark Hughes during the Saints Carabao Cup tie against Leicester last week. That was Obafemi's first senior start, and tonight he makes his first Premier League start.
Speaking to BT Sport before the game, Hughes explained that Obafemi's suits their style for the game while confirming that Charlie Austin was dropped for tactical reasons. He starts up front alongside Nathan Redmond.
Young Michael Obafemi, I liked what I saw. He gives us a threat in behind. Which I think, if we don't have as much possession in periods we still need an out ball so we will have that with those two.
"I like what I saw, it gave us a threat in behind"
Southampton boss Mark Hughes was happy with Michael Obafemi's performance midweek and Obafemi has been rewared with a start today. #SOUMUN pic.twitter.com/ohcS7d0uYa
— eir Sport (@eirSport) December 1, 2018
Obafemi is set to face a Manchester United who start with only one recognised centre-half. It is expected that Scott McTominay will play alongside Phil Jones, although Nemanja Matić has also played as a defender on occasion this season.
Five changes for #MUFC today! Here's the starting XI for #SOUMUN... pic.twitter.com/5byF8dUL8v
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 1, 2018
