- Update on Benjamin Sesko ahead of Sunderland clash
- Injured in 3-2 win after collision with Liverpool defender
- Slovenian looking to add to his double digit tally
Manchester United fans have been handed a timely boost as the club prepares for an away clash against Sunderland on Saturday (9 May).
The pressure is off the gas cooker, as United secured Champions League football in the thrilling 3-2 win against rivals Liverpool last week. In the remaining fixtures, there are still records, pride and Michael Carrick‘s future to play for.
One man who will certainly be playing for the manager is Benjamin Sesko, who have found a new lease of life under the interim boss.
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United Receive Sesko Boost
Journalist Laurie Whitwell provided a positive boost ahead of the Sunderland clash.
Speaking on the Talk of the Devils podcast, Whitwell said: “I’m told that on Monday he was feeling better from the shin injury that he picked up, so I’d hope he’s okay for Sunderland.”
The Slovenian was subbed off at half-time in the win against Liverpool, after a clash with Ibrahima Konate led to him falling down Old Trafford’s turf dip.
Amad Diallo replaced him, which was a surprise to fans after Sesko scored in that first half. However, after the game, Carrick provided an update on his injury situation, stating that the striker was brought up after a “bang on his shin”.
While Sesko was instrumental in the lead, he was at the centre of a heated VAR debate regarding a potential handball in the build-up to a goal. Now that the drama is over, the focus has shifted to Sesko’s availability.
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Sesko Firing Under Carrick
Sesko has enjoyed a fantastic run under Carrick in 2026. The former Leipzig man has been on the scoresheet seven times in 13 games. Many of the earlier appearances were as a ‘super sub’, but Sesko has enjoyed a run of four consecutive starts. Goals in his last two outings against Liverpool and Brentford have been crucial in narrow wins that have secured European football.
As United head to the northeast at the weekend, fans will be hopeful that Sesko’s inclusion can mirror the first half that blew Liverpool away. Despite only scoring twice the opening 45 minutes, the scoreline could have been much more flattering for the Red Devils.
If Carrick decides to rest him as a precaution, the goal-scoring burden will be on Bryan Mbuemo, who has been the alternative number nine. However, the Cameroonian is in a goalscoring drought himself. The last time the former Brentford man scored was against Spurs on 7 February.
A win against the Black Cats could potentially move United closer to second place, rather than fourth. Carrick will want to leave a lasting impression in May, so having Sesko at his disposal is for his own personal benefit as well.
