Michael Carrick Backs Benjamin Sesko to Flourish After Dramatic Manchester United Equaliser
Caretaker manager Michael Carrick has declared that Benjamin Sesko is primed to 'kick on' in his Manchester United career, following the striker's spectacular injury-time equaliser against West Ham United. The Slovenian forward came off the bench to salvage a crucial point for the Red Devils with a stunning finish in the dying moments at the London Stadium.
Late Drama Denies Hammers Vital Victory
West Ham appeared destined for a monumental victory in their battle against relegation, having taken the lead through Tomas Soucek's neat finish after a subdued first half. The Hammers, entrenched in the bottom three, were mere minutes away from securing three precious points that would have bolstered their survival hopes.
However, substitute Sesko had other ideas. In the fourth minute of added time, he met Bryan Mbeumo's cross with a fantastic first-time finish, firing past the goalkeeper from a tight angle to earn Manchester United a share of the spoils. The goal preserved Carrick's unbeaten record since taking temporary charge.
Carrick's Unwavering Belief in Sesko's Quality
Speaking after the dramatic 1-1 draw, Carrick was effusive in his praise for the 22-year-old's match-saving contribution. 'It's an unbelievable finish, with that angle and to generate that power,' Carrick remarked. 'It's some goal from him. He's capable of that, Ben. He's done it over time, it's not like he's just burst onto the scene. He's been doing it and proven he can score goals.'
The manager emphasised that Sesko's recent form is no surprise, highlighting his consistent performances in training. 'He's been doing it in training for us as well so it's not surprising to be honest. It's what he does, it's what he's good at,' Carrick added. 'The last goal would have done him the world of good and tonight is another important goal and a big moment for him and us.'
Sesko Finding His Feet After Slow Start
The £74 million summer signing from RB Leipzig endured a challenging beginning to his Manchester United career, struggling for form and confidence. However, he has now found his scoring touch, netting five goals in his last six appearances across all competitions. This resurgence is a timely boost for both player and club.
When questioned about whether Sesko could force his way into the starting lineup, Carrick stressed the importance of squad balance. 'It's always about the balance. The boys that have played have done fantastically well so it's about the importance of the whole group and the whole squad,' he explained. 'Ben's doing a lot of work, he's in a good place and he's ready to kick on. It's just about managing the balance. We could have changed things a bit earlier, we're always trying to make the right decision. But certainly when he came on the pitch he made a big difference.'
Carrick's Assessment of a Tough Encounter
Reflecting on the match overall, Carrick acknowledged it was a difficult fixture. 'It was a tough game, we expected that really. I don't think we were at our best in terms of sharpness and attacking side of the game,' he admitted. 'So sometimes you have to make the most of what the night throws at you. Credit to the boys for coming back again, it is a great trait to have in the team.'
The manager chose to focus on the positives, praising his team's resilience. 'There are positives to take from it, you can't win every game, we certainly didn't want to come away from here without a point. We have to give credit to West Ham, they defended well and closed spaces off. We just lacked that spark. I won't be too harsh on the boys, we will learn from tonight and come back strong.'
League Implications and Reaction
The draw in east London leaves Manchester United sitting fourth in the Premier League table, maintaining their position in the Champions League qualification spots. For West Ham, the result is a bitter pill to swallow, as they remain in 18th place, two points adrift of safety.
Hammers goalscorer Tomas Soucek expressed his disappointment. 'It is tough to take, I am here to save us from relegation and this draw was tough to take,' he said. 'We wanted the three points to go closer and closer but we have to take positives. There are still so many games. If we play like this five or six games we will win them and get out of relegation. We are getting closer and going in the right direction. You can see all fans are with us because we all have one job and one goal – to be in the Premier League next season.'
Looking Ahead
Due to their early exit from the FA Cup, Manchester United now have almost two weeks without a fixture before returning to Premier League action against Everton. This break provides valuable time for preparation and recovery.
West Ham, meanwhile, turn their attention to the FA Cup, where they face League One strugglers Burton Albion on Saturday, aiming to secure a place in the next round and build momentum for their survival fight.
