Southampton v Man Utd
Southampton manager Jan Poortvliet has been boosted by the news that French midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin should be fit to play after showing no reaction to a recent hamstring problem in training.
Former Everton left-back Lee Molyneux goes straight into the squad after he signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the club but Michael Svensson (Achilles) and Wayne Thomas (knee) are still out.
Rio Ferdinand will be missing for Manchester United after suffering from back spasms and the Red Devils’ medical staff are now working towards the 30-year-old being fit for the title clash with Chelsea at Old Trafford on January 11.
Carlos Tevez is also absent having been given time off to visit his family in Argentina while Patrice Evra is suspended.