SAINTS full-back Romain Perraud is looking forward to the “exciting challenge” of facing Manchester United at St Mary’s on Sunday (2pm) – and tipped the Red Devils to compete for the title this season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side finished second in the top flight last campaign, 12 points behind fierce rivals Manchester City.

Perraud, a summer signing for Saints from Ligue 1 outfit Brest, got his first taste of Premier League action during last weekend’s 3-1 defeat to Everton.

But the 23-year-old is relishing the chance to take on United as Saints start their league schedule at home.

Asked about coming up against the Old Trafford side, Perraud said: “Big, big challenge for us and a big challenge for me, if I play.

“Manchester United has many, many great players. I think this year they will fight for the title.

“So I think it is an exciting challenge for me, for us because it’s a great team and we need to make a great match for our fans, because it’s the first time in St Mary’s Stadium for everybody.

“Okay it will be hard, but in one game everything is possible.”

Should Perraud start on Sunday, he could come up against new United forward Jadon Sancho. The England international sealed a £73million move from Borussia Dortmund last month.

“I think we don't fight in the same category with Manchester United,” said Toulouse-born Perraud.

“We don't play the same championship. They play to win the title, and us we play to stay here, to make the best season possible.”