Southampton manager Ralph Hassenhuttl has tipped Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho to have a "good impact" on the Premier League, but insists his side won't be scared of him if he features this afternoon at St Mary's.
After stepping off the bench in United's 5-1 victory over Leeds United on the opening day of the season last weekend, Sancho will be targeting his first start for the club this afternoon following his £72.9million switch from Borussia Dortmund last month.
It is highly possible that the England international could replace Daniel James in the starting line-up and take up residency on the right-wing, providing support to the likes of Bruno Fernandes, who netted a hat-trick last night, and Mason Greenwood, who is expected to lead the attack once again.
Should United chief Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opt to hand Sancho his full debut, Hassenhuttl, who is familiar with the 21-year-old's qualities because of the time he spent in charge of Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, has insisted that his side will not be scared of the threat he will carry, despite backing him to have a positive influence in England.
"I know him and I think he will definitely have a good impact in the Premier League," Hassenhuttl said, as quoted by the Daily Echo.
“We are not scared if he plays at the weekend. I know he is a strong player but Man United have so much quality.
"It will also be tough to defend against Mason Greenwood and the other players but we must do it together, committed and very disciplined."
As well as landing Sancho this summer, United have also drafted in Raphael Varane, who could win his debut this afternoon.
However, it is not just the new additions, in the eyes of Hassenhuttl, that will make the Reds an even stronger outfit this time around.
"Not only because of the signings they have made," Hassenhuttl added.
"Ole has now been working with them for quite a long time now and with every year you get more committed to each other and it becomes clear what you want to do.
"There is massive quality in this side and they are getting more and more consistent in their performances. They showed that last season and can show it again after this Sunday."
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