Man United travel to Ukraine in hope of winning their Europa League group. Jose Mourinho’s men sit second with nine points, while Fenerbache are top with 10. Their opponents tonight Zorya Luhansk are bottom of the group.

United just have to avoid defeat to progress, but with their previous results in Europe anything could happen. Their head to head record against Feyenoord is enough to go through even if Dutch side win.

The free flowing football that would be expected from the Premier League side will be put under pressure as of the state of the pitch. Due to the weather in Ukraine, the pitch is hard and icy, creating an even playing field for the teams and possible a struggle for United.

Changes have been made in other games in the group to disastrous effect so its expected only a few will be made. Players not in the squad are midfielder Michael Carrick and full-backs Antonio Valencia and Matteo Darmian, as they started against Everton and are being given rest ahead of the weekend’s match against Tottenham.

However, Memphis Depay and Morgan Schneiderlin have been overlooked for the match. Throwing doubts over the players futures under Mourinho.

Certain inclusion’s in the squad are Captain Wayne Rooney who returns from suspension and defender Eric Bailly, a substitute at Goodison Park on Sunday, who has recovered from injury.

Zorya were a struggle to break down in the reverse fixture and will be no easier on their home turf.

My Prediction  Zorya 1-2 Man United

 

Southampton face Hapoel Be’er Sheva at home needing a win or goaless draw to progress. Both teams can only finish second as leaders Sparta Prague are on 12 points.

Yet a win for the Israeli side, or a score draw, would see them go through to the knockout stage.This is because teams that finish level on points in their group are separated by the results in their head-to-head meetings, followed by away goals scored in those games and then finally overall goal difference. The first game between the sides ended a scoreless draw in Israel.

A boost in selection terms is that Dustan Tadic could play in his first game for the Saints since 6th November. With a win necessary for the Premier League side it is unlikely too many changes will be made from the weekend, however Claude Puel is in favour of giving youngsters in the squad a chance.

My Prediction Southampton 1-0 Hapoel Be’er Sheva