Benjamin Sesko has expressed his willingness to remain patient as he works toward securing a regular starting position at Manchester United. The 22-year-old Slovenian striker has made a significant impact coming off the bench in recent matches, scoring crucial late goals that have helped propel the Red Devils up the Premier League table under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Sesko netted Manchester United’s winning goal in their 1-0 victory at Everton on Monday after entering the match as a 58th-minute substitute. This marked the third time in four games that the young forward has found the net after coming on as a substitute, demonstrating his growing importance to the squad.
Sesko’s Impact as Manchester United Supersub
The striker’s recent form has been remarkable, with decisive contributions that have directly influenced results. According to reports, Sesko scored a 96th-minute equalizer in the 1-1 draw at West Ham two weeks ago and delivered a 94th-minute winner in the 3-2 victory against Fulham on February 1st. These late-game heroics have established him as a valuable asset for Carrick’s side.
Despite his success from the bench, Sesko maintains a mature perspective on his role. “I’m not even thinking: ‘I have to start, I have to start.’ For me it’s just whenever the coach decides to put me there one time or not – I’m just going to be there [ready],” the striker said. He emphasized his commitment to making the most of every opportunity, whether it’s five minutes or a full match.
Building Toward a Starting Role
However, Sesko confirmed that discussions about transitioning into a starting position are ongoing. “We are talking of course about starting but Michael Carrick believes in me, everyone believes in me, they are getting me ready to start as soon as possible,” he explained. The forward stressed his focus on delivering important performances regardless of playing time.
Additionally, the Slovenian international addressed the pressure that comes with wearing the Manchester United shirt. He views the expectation as a privilege rather than a burden, stating that pressure is something he must embrace if he wants to compete at the highest level. According to Sesko, accepting and not being affected by pressure is essential for any top-level player.
United’s Impressive Form Under Carrick
Manchester United have collected 16 points from a possible 18 in Carrick’s six matches as interim manager. Sesko praised the positive atmosphere within the squad and highlighted the coaching staff’s work on individual development. “The mood is really good,” he said, crediting the coaching team for the attention to detail that has produced such consistent results.
Meanwhile, Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite remains hopeful of earning a late call-up to England’s World Cup squad despite limited playing time this season. The 23-year-old has started only three Premier League games after missing the first half of the campaign with a hamstring injury. Branthwaite was overlooked by England head coach Thomas Tuchel for his first two squads.
Branthwaite Eyes World Cup Opportunity
In contrast to Sesko’s rising fortunes, Branthwaite faces an uphill battle to convince Tuchel before the summer tournament. “Hopefully I’m past that now and I can get a good momentum going, stay injury-free and push for the World Cup squad,” the defender said. He believes consistent performances for Everton could give him a chance, with fresher legs potentially working in his favor compared to players who have featured in 30-plus games this season.
Tuchel will have friendlies against Uruguay and Japan in March to evaluate new options before finalizing his World Cup squad. Whether Branthwaite can force his way into contention remains uncertain, but he maintains that representing England at the World Cup would be a dream come true.
