Advertisement
Chris Ison/PA Wire/Press Association Images

Manchester United's rumoured target started as Southampton struggled in Europe

The Saints will need the Senegal international if they’re to progress to the group stage after a 1-1 first-leg draw at St. Mary’s.

HE MAY BE at the centre of transfer speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford but Sadio Mané played for Southampton this evening.

But it proved a difficult experience for him and his current employers.

The Saints faced Danish champions Midtjylland in the first-leg of their Europa League qualifier and went behind just before the half-time interval when Tim Sparv, a graduate from Southampton’s academy, fired home from 20 yards.

The hosts were better after the break though and after James Ward-Prowse was taken down in the penalty area, Jay Rodriguez, who missed all of last season due to a cruciate ligament injury, stepped up to convert from the spot – his first goal since March 2014.

Soccer - UEFA Europa League - Qualifying Play-offs - First Leg - Southampton v FC Midtjylland - St Mary's Stadium Jay Rodriguez scored the Southampton equaliser from the penalty spot. Andrew Matthews / PA Wire/Press Association Images Andrew Matthews / PA Wire/Press Association Images / PA Wire/Press Association Images

The game ended 1-1 and the concession of the away goal will concern Ronald Koeman.

The Republic of Ireland’s Shane Long started from the bench though he did replace Rodriguez  for the last fifteen minutes.

Unsurprisingly, all the attention was focused on Mané before the game owing to the recent stories of Manchester United lodging an official bid for him.

As the 23-year-old made his way to the St. Mary’s dressing rooms, a young fan begged him to stay with the player agreeing to the demand, albeit with a smile.
http://vine.co/v/eDOai95gzhi

With such inconsistent transfer deals recently, is Chelsea the right move for Pedro?

Fabregas’ girlfriend and 6 others being blamed for the collapse of Pedro’s transfer to United

Author
Eoin O'Callaghan
View 25 comments
Close
25 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.