Southampton v. Manchester United - Preview

With the European Cup dream over at the last 16 stage yet again, it would seem the F.A Cup has become Manchester United’s priority with Chelsea edging ever nearer to their first Football League title in half a century.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s Red Army travel to the St.Mary’s for a Saturday evening clash, hoping we can defend out F.A Cup to avoid a trophy-less season. United are aiming to retain the famous trophy for the first time in their history, and despite the third round embarrassment against Exeter City, consecutive Premiership scouts in the fourth and fifth round leave us favourites and looking well equipped to bring the Cup back to Old Trafford.

United make the trip to the South Coast without influential winger Ryan Giggs. A face injury during Tuesday’s defeat in Milan means Giggs is not available for selection, with Ferguson believed to have a selection headache over whether to stat Quinton Fortune or the more attacking option of Alan Smith in his absence.

Southampton boss Harry Redknapp also faces a brain-teasing team selection task, with having both 'keepers Antti Niemi and Paul Smith available for selection. Smith has been sensational whilst standing in for the injured Finn and both have a chance of starting. Meanwhile, Nigel Quashie cup-tied and David Prutton is suspended.

The Red Devils will have to show their mental and physical strength to advance into the Semi-Finals, especially Ruud van Nistelrooy, who was criticized from the media and fans for a below par performance in Italy. Van Nistelrooy has yet to find his feet since returning from a long spell on the sidelines.

Assistant Manager Carlos Queiroz candidly defended the striker however, and admits the Saints will make it a tough fixture. "We know it will not be easy for us tomorrow" said the Portuguese right-hand man. "I would not say the desire and will to win the FA Cup is bigger now compared to the start of the season but it has become a very important competition for us"

"They will know our desire to bounce back from what happened against Milan is intense"

ManUtdWeb Prediction: Southampton 0 - 2 Manchester United - I'm predicting a déja vu from 1996, where United beat the Saints in the Quarter Finals at Old Trafford. Peter Crouch seems to have come of age at St.Mary's and his height and form will prove a threat.

MUTV Coverage:

Sunday 13th March at 12 midnight, repeated at 8pm