The Slovenian striker proves to be Michael Carrick’s “get out of jail free card” once again, securing a crucial victory at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The Unbeaten Streak Continues: Carrick’s Tactical Gamble Pays Off
Michael Carrick’s fairy-tale start as Manchester United interim boss reached a new high on Monday night. A gritty 1-0 victory over Everton has propelled the Red Devils into fourth place, leapfrogging Chelsea and sitting just three points behind third-placed Aston Villa.
Despite a cagey affair at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, United’s resilience was rewarded. The visitors struggled for incisiveness early on, with James Tarkowski clearing an Amad Diallo effort off the line in the opening minutes, but the momentum shifted the moment Carrick turned to his bench.
Benjamin Sesko: The Ultimate Impact Player
For the third time in four matches, Benjamin Sesko emerged as the hero. Despite not yet starting a game under Carrick, the Slovenian international is making an undeniable case for the No. 9 shirt.
Coming on for Amad Diallo just before the hour mark, Sesko needed only 13 minutes to break the deadlock. A clinical counter-attack saw the 22-year-old finish coolly past Jordan Pickford in the 71st minute a “comparatively early” goal considering his recent habit of scoring in “Fergie Time.”
Sesko’s Incredible Impact Under Carrick:
- Vs Fulham: 90+2’ Winning Goal
- Vs West Ham: 90+5’ Equalizer
- Vs Everton: 71’ Winning Goal
- Total: 3 crucial goals in 6 substitute appearances.
Top Four Race: The Table as it Stands
With this victory, Manchester United have secured 16 points from a possible 18 under Carrick. The “interim” tag is looking increasingly temporary as the squad shows a level of belief and defensive solidity not seen earlier in the season.
| Position | Club | Points | Form (Last 5) |
| 3rd | Aston Villa | 51 | W-L-W-D-W |
| 4th | Man Utd | 48 | W-D-W-W-W |
| 5th | Chelsea | 45 | D-W-L-W-D |
| 6th | Liverpool | 45 | W-D-W-L-D |
United now face a crucial run of fixtures that could define their season and Carrick’s permanent future.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
