Sesko adds new edge as Manchester United begin Champions League with Sabah win

Michael Carrick says Benjamin Sesko is giving Manchester United an attacking option they did not previously have after scoring in their 4-0 Champions League victory over Sabah at Old Trafford on Thursday.

The Slovenia international struck for the second time in as many appearances, following his goal in last Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Everton. Carrick was pleased to restore Sesko to the starting XI and believes the forward’s pace, strength and movement behind the defence provide a different threat.

“Definitely, he offers a different kind of threat,” Carrick said. “That’s the beauty of it – we know what Ben gives us.

“There’s not many around that give you what Ben does in terms of physicality, playing on the last line and his speed to run in behind.

“It’s great to have him back at this level after working to get his fitness back. A couple of goals, good minutes in him – we’re really pleased with him.”

Matheus Cunha was also on the scoresheet against Sabah, while Bryan Mbeumo and Marcus Rashford have made impressive starts to the season. The competition has left Carrick with difficult decisions over his preferred front three, although he views the strength in depth as a positive.

“It’s not an easy decision, but it’s definitely one I prefer,” he said. “It’s fantastic that they’re all in good form and have started so well.”

Dorgu impresses as midfield partnership develops

Patrick Dorgu played a key part in United’s opening goal and caused Sabah problems throughout the match. Youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey also gained valuable minutes after being introduced.

“I thought Pat played ever so well,” Carrick said. “He was a big threat down that side of the pitch for us tonight. He created that first goal and looked really dangerous.”

Carrick was also encouraged by the developing partnership between Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans in midfield. Tielemans has adapted quickly, while Mainoo’s consistency has provided a reliable presence in the centre of the pitch.

“I think Youri has settled in well and I thought he was really good tonight again,” Carrick said. “Kobbie’s just been really consistent all the way through, so we’ve got really good options.”

The result provided United with an ideal opening to their Champions League campaign, and Carrick was particularly pleased to record a clean sheet after the team had conceded in their opening league matches.

“That’s what we set out to achieve really – a good performance. Individually, collectively, from start to finish,” he said.

“A clean sheet, some goals and some good exciting football – a good night all round.”

Carrick warned, however, that United still have areas to improve and must not become carried away by one positive display.

“Results-wise, it hasn’t been the start we wanted, we wanted more points in the league,” he said. “There’s certainly things to improve on.

“We want to keep pushing and progressing. There’s slightly different things happening in the team now that we didn’t have last season, so that’s really encouraging for me.”

United’s next match is in the Premier League, when Manchester City visit Old Trafford for Sunday’s Manchester derby.