Premier League 2018-19: Manchester United's predicted XI against Southampton

Defense

Centrebacks: Chris Smalling and Phil Jones

United's experienced defensive guard of Jones and Smalling.

United currently face a crisis in defense. Victor Lindelof, who has been a hard worker this season, is out injured for a while. Marcos Rojo is also on the recovery path and has not featured this season.

The only notable central defenders available to Mourinho are Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Eric Bailly.

Bailly was expected to start against Young Boys but was benched in that match. His differences with Mourinho may be part of the reason why the fringe Jones will again get the nod to partner Smalling at the heart of defense.

Full backs

Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia

Shaw is available for selection after serving his suspension

United skipper Antonio Valencia is back in the fold and will likely start in the line up. Veteran Ashley Young is likely to be rested so that Valencia can get more playing time.

Luke Shaw missed the Palace game after serving out a one match suspension. He will start at left back with Valencia on the right back position.

Valencia had been out for a while after undergoing surgery. There was tension for a while after Valencia accidentally liked an Instagram post that advocated for Mourinho's sacking, but that seems to have calmed down for now.