Benjamin Sesko is not in the squad for Manchester United's final pre-season match against AC Milan this afternoon, as he continues to recover from a shin injury sustained in May. The Slovenia international has not played a minute of the pre-season campaign, missing all six games ahead of next weekend's Premier League opener against Hull City.
Injury and Recovery
Sesko aggravated a shin injury in the victory over Liverpool in May, taking a tumble down the Old Trafford pitch and crashing into the advertising boards. At the time, it wasn't thought to be serious, but almost four months later, he is still to return, having had a whole summer off to recover.
He scored his 12th goal of the season in that game, but it proved to be his last contribution for the season. The former RB Leipzig star had shone following Michael Carrick's arrival at Old Trafford last season, starring in a super-sub role.
Other Absences and Team News
In addition to Sesko, Mason Mount is also not involved against Milan in Poland after coming off in the 1-1 draw against Paris Saint-Germain with a knock. The match is Manchester United's final pre-season friendly before the Premier League season begins.
Fitness for Hull City Opener
Even if passed fit, it seems unlikely Sesko will be deemed ready to lead the line for United at the MKM Stadium against Hull next Saturday afternoon. The striker has not played since that game against Liverpool in May.
Carrick often favoured the 23-year-old coming off the bench last season, and he may have to settle for that role again with no pre-season under his belt. Bryan Mbeumo has led the line this summer and has looked fit, sharp, and effective in that role through the middle. The Cameroon international seems the leading contender to start up top next weekend.
