Sesko’s impact off the bench transforms United’s season
Michael Carrick described Benjamin Sesko’s progress at Manchester United as a mix of big and small steps with recent huge leaps in confidence and belief. The Slovenian striker’s contributions have placed United firmly in the race for Champions League qualification after two years away.
Without Sesko’s late goals off the bench United would have lost at West Ham on 10 February and drawn with Everton on their first visit to Hill Dickinson Stadium. His stoppage-time volley earned a point at West Ham while his 71st-minute winner secured a 1-0 victory at Everton.
The Everton goal showcased endurance as Sesko ran 70 yards at full speed after laying off to Matheus Cunha before calmly slotting home Bryan Mbeumo’s square pass. Carrick called it a ruthless finish with real confidence. Jamie Carragher admired the composure noting Sesko covered over 80 yards yet celebrated with energy.
Sesko now has eight goals this season including six in his last seven games. He scored only twice under Ruben Amorim who signed him from RB Leipzig for £73.7m in August 2025. His form exploded under interim Darren Fletcher and continues under Carrick.
Many feel Sesko deserves starts in Carrick’s six games but the manager values squad harmony. He maintains a strong relationship with Sesko who understands his role and delivers when called upon. Sesko said he believes in himself and knows teammates trust him to impact any minutes he gets.
Lammens earns praise with key saves
At the other end Senne Lammens shone against Everton. The 23-year-old Belgian goalkeeper denied Michael Keane’s blockbuster strike and handled dangerous corners under pressure. David Moyes called him brilliant and the best player on the pitch.
Carrick benefits from recruitment blocking Amorim’s push for Emi Martinez and instead signing Lammens for £18.1m. With just one full senior season in Belgium behind him Lammens shows calmness and composure reminiscent of Edwin van der Sar. Carrick noted similarities in reliability and ability to remove chaos rather than create it.
United’s resurgence keeps top-four hopes alive
United are unbeaten in 10 straight Premier League games their longest run since 2021. They sit alone in fourth three points behind Aston Villa and three ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool.
Carrick’s side has no European distractions unlike rivals giving them an edge. Jason Wilcox urged Champions League qualification after Amorim’s exit highlighting the financial and status gap.
Carragher believes United are virtually guaranteed a top-four finish. With young talents like 22-year-old Sesko and 23-year-old Lammens blossoming the club can dream of returning to Europe’s elite competition.
