Sherwood says Sesko 'isn't the answer' as Carrick's bench role raises United doubts

Tim Sherwood has cast doubt on Benjamin Sesko’s long-term credentials at Manchester United, arguing that the Slovenian striker’s continued use as an impact substitute — rather than a starter — speaks volumes about how the club views him.

Sesko came off the bench at Goodison Park on Sunday and appeared to have won the game with a strike in the 88th minute, only for the goal to earn United a point rather than all three. It was the third consecutive game in which the 23-year-old had been introduced from the bench, with Matheus Cunha — a player not naturally suited to the centre-forward role — preferred to lead the line from the start.

“Sesko isn’t the answer because no one wants to play him,” Sherwood said. “He comes on, he’s done alright, he’s come on and scored a few goals off the bench. But if he was top drawer, do you think Michael Carrick would be playing him? Of course he would. He wouldn’t be wanting to play someone else out of position.”

The pattern is not new. Even during his debut season at Old Trafford, Sesko — signed from RB Leipzig — largely made his mark as a substitute, with starting appearances coming only occasionally despite contributing winning goals from the bench.

Carrick has acknowledged the situation but framed it in terms of patience and development rather than any lack of faith. “He’s made big strides last season and he’s still young, he’s still kind of adapting to a point and learning and developing here,” the United manager said. “There’s loads more to come from Ben. So just being patient with him really and looking after him as well, and letting him grow into the season. Really happy with how he’s come back, so looking forward to seeing him on the pitch a little bit more.”

A shin injury carried through the summer may have affected Sesko’s standing in the squad during the opening weeks of the campaign. United’s only other recognised centre-forward option is Joshua Zirkzee, who came close to leaving the club in the summer transfer window.

Whether Carrick’s cautious management of Sesko reflects a considered plan to bring him along gradually, or a deeper uncertainty about his suitability as a first-choice striker, is a question that will sharpen with each game he spends on the bench.